Sidewalk - bike free

For various reasons - e.g. spatial, infrastructural, network planning - it is not always possible to route cycle and pedestrian traffic separately. If it is not possible to route cycle traffic either on a cycle traffic facility or on the roadway, a footpath can be designated as an exception by means of signage with

• Traffic sign VZ 239 "Sonderweg Fußverkehr" in combination with the
• Additional traffic sign VZ 1022-10 "Bicycle free"

also be made available for use by cyclists.

In contrast to traffic signs VZ 240 StVO, cyclists are not on an equal footing with pedestrians, but are guests. Cyclists must behave with particular consideration here due to their close proximity to vulnerable pedestrians.

In concrete terms, this means

Speed
The standard speed of cyclists and pedestrians is fundamentally different - the so-called "speed difference" is large: Cyclists are usually faster, which is why pedestrians may feel endangered by cyclists.
Cyclists are allowed to use these areas that are exceptionally open to cyclists, but at the speed of pedestrians, i.e. at "walking speed".
If cyclists want to ride faster than pedestrians, they are also allowed to use the roadway as an alternative, provided no other signage prohibits this. Cyclists are not obliged to use the "footpath - cycle free" areas.

Distance
As with drivers of motor vehicles, who are required by law to keep a distance of at least 1.5 m when overtaking cyclists, cyclists should also overtake pedestrians at a clear distance. In turn, pedestrians should also allow cyclists to pass them.

Further topics