Road safety on two wheels

A targeted mix of measures for bicycles, e-scooters and motorcycles consisting of legal amendments and awareness-raising measures is to take Austria to the top in Europe in matters of road safety.

Tips for riding a bicycle

Fog, rain and early dusk lead to poor visibility. It is not enough to have good lights on your bicycle, you also have to switch them on, when dusk begins. For greater visibility, cyclists should avoid dark clothing or attach reflective strips to be seen better at dusk or in fog. Children, in particular, should be clearly visible as they perceive traffic differently from adults and are more easily overlooked as a result of their size.

Rain and wet leaves can transform roads into slides and therefore greatly increase braking distance. Take care on bends, road markings and tramlines: They can cause difficulties in wet conditions when you brake or turn. In the damp seasons, the brakes should be adjusted and serviced optimally without fail, and rim brakes, in particular, have disadvantages in wet conditions compared to disc brakes. Good, treaded tyres with the correct pressure are always important. Slightly less pressure also creates a little more contact area for the rubber.

If the cycle paths have not been cleared, the road should be used. Cycle paths are often not cleared of leaves and snow at all, or not until last. If this has been neglected, the obligation to use cycle paths does not apply, even if they are marked.

Additionally, e-bikes and pedelecs require extra treatment in autumn and winter. At low temperatures, the efficiency of the battery decreases, and the range drops. Batteries can be protected from the cold with special neoprene covers or by being stored in the home.

Tips for riding an e-scooter

To ensure comprehensive safety for all road users here as well, the same rules and obligations apply for electric scooters as for bicycles: Riding an e-scooter is only permitted in traffic areas that are also allowed to be used by bicycles. Riding on pavements and footpaths is therefore not allowed! In addition, telephone calls may only be made using a hands-free system. E-scooters may be driven from the age of twelve. Children under 12 may only ride alone if they possess bicycle ID or are accompanied by a person aged at least 16.

Please bear in mind that a speed of up to 25 km/h can be reached. Wearing a helmet can therefore save your life. The braking performance is not as good as on bicycles, which makes the braking distances longer. In addition, the small wheels increase the risk of slipping or falling, particularly on bumps or tramlines. Please therefore pay particular attention to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and always make eye contact. Reflectors on your clothing and helmet also increase your visibility.

Tips for riding a motorcycle

For the greatest possible safety in traffic, several things should be observed before you set off on your motorcycle. In general, you should only begin a trip if you are well-rested and healthy, to guarantee your full power of concentration. In addition, the motorcycle’s technology must always work completely. Checking the brake system, tyres and lubricated chain is as strongly recommended as checking the engine. Always wear a certified full-face helmet and protective clothing in the form of a jacket and trousers or overalls, gloves, kidney belt and boots. It is also advisable to take rainwear with you as well.

High speed is the cause of most accidents on winding roads. Adjust to the conditions when you ride and pay particular attention to oncoming dangers! Mistakes can be more easily avoided with slightly less speed.