Road Safety Information

To stay safe, all couriers must understand and obey road rules, ride respectfully alongside other motorists and ensure that their bike is maintained to a high standard at all times. With additional requirements such as helmets and reflectors, riders must always be prepared for their ride to ensure that they can safely share the road with motorists.

Understanding right-of-way is key to safe cycling in Austria.

There are some key rules to remember when it comes to who has the right of way when on the road. As a road user on a bicycle, understanding these rules is essential to avoiding road accidents. When on the road, the following rules apply to right of way:

• "Rechts vor Links": At unmarked intersections, cyclists from the right generally have priority.

• Designated Lanes/Paths: Cyclists generally have priority on cycle lanes (Radfahrstreifen) and paths (Radwege), but always be cautious.

• Pedestrian Crossings: Pedestrians always have priority on zebra crossings. Cyclists must yield.

• Shared Paths: On combined pedestrian/cycle paths (Geh- und Radwege), pedestrians have priority. Yield to them.

• Exiting Paths: When leaving a cycle path onto a road, yield to road traffic.

• Traffic Signals: Obey all traffic signals - you have the same obligations as other road users.

Common Road  Hazards & Quick Solutions

Whilst on the road, there are some common hazards that you may encounter. Remember to always scan the road ahead, 

Uneven Road Surfaces:

• Hazard: Potholes, cracks, and uneven pavement can cause loss of control or tire damage.

• Solution: Maintain a vigilant lookout, reduce speed in rough areas, and use robust tires.

Tram Tracks:

• Hazard: Slippery when wet, posing a risk of tire slippage and falls.

• Solution: Cross tracks perpendicularly, reduce speed, and avoid sudden maneuvers.

"Door Zones":

• Hazard: Unexpectedly opening car doors create sudden obstacles.

• Solution: Maintain a safe distance from parked cars, anticipate openings, and use a bell.

Intersections:

• Hazard: Vehicles turning across paths, failure to yield, and blind spots create collision risks.

• Solution: Approach cautiously, make eye contact with drivers, and use clear hand signals.

Weather Conditions:

• Hazard: Wet leaves, ice, and snow make surfaces slippery, increasing fall risks.

• Solution: Reduce speed, increase braking distance, and use tires with good traction. For more information on riding during adverse weather, click here.

Increased Traffic:

• Hazard: High traffic and lack of driver awareness lead to close calls.

• Solution: Wear bright clothing, use lights, and practice defensive riding.

Visibility

To maximize your visibility to other road users, wear bright, reflective clothing, especially during low-light conditions. Ensure your bicycle is equipped with functioning front and rear lights, as well as reflectors. Maintain a predictable line and use clear hand signals to indicate your intentions.