Shared-use pathWorldwide
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12. Shared-use path
A shared-use path is a path or part of a road intended for use by both pedestrians and cyclists. Unlike facilities where pedestrians and cyclists have clearly separated sections, users of a shared-use path normally travel within the same general space.
Because users may travel at very different speeds, cyclists should approach pedestrians carefully, adapt their speed and leave sufficient space when passing. The permitted users, priority rules and any speed restrictions depend on the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • U.G.Michałowice • CC BY-SA
What is a shared-use path?
A shared-use path is a path or part of a road intended to be used by both pedestrians and cyclists.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO Annex 2, signs 239–241
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 2(4)–(5), cycle tracks and footway exceptions
Do cyclists automatically have priority over pedestrians?
No. The applicable priority and conduct rules depend on local law. On a shared facility, cyclists should expect pedestrians to move within the available space.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO Annex 2, signs 239–241
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 2(4)–(5), cycle tracks and footway exceptions
Can speed pedelecs use a shared-use path?
This depends on local law. Because speed pedelecs can travel substantially faster than ordinary bicycles, some countries or facilities exclude them from pedestrian-and-cycle shared paths.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO Annex 2, signs 239–241
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany, StVO section 2(4)–(5), cycle tracks and footway exceptions

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