VIDEO. As the number of cyclists explodes in Toulouse, here are some rules to follow on the road
By Lucie Fraisse
Published on
Over 77% of cyclists in the agglomeration of Toulouse between 2016 and 2021. In the Pink City, cycling is booming. You just have to stand along the Canal du Midi or in the city center during rush hour to notice it.
” The cyclists ? A real mess”
A development of the practice which is not without clashes. The cohabitation between cyclists, motorists and pedestrians is indeed sometimes difficult. Just take a look on social media under any article tuned to the bike by Toulouse news to realize it.
Anthology: “I would be for cycling in town the day I would stop being afraid of being knocked down by a stupid cyclist riding on a sidewalk”; “please let them be lit, it’s unbearable to see the number of cyclists riding in the dark”; “cyclists who do not respect the highway code, a real mess”; “that cyclists respect the Highway Code and stop doing anything thinking you have priority everywhere”. Vibe…
It’s obvious, but it’s always better by saying it: whatever some Internet users say, cyclists do not have a monopoly on incivilities and dangerous on the road. Intrepid cyclists, motorists who sometimes struggle to share public space or facilities that are not always suitable for cycling… The reasons for the sometimes difficult cohabitation between the different users are multiple.. But can also proceed from a lack of knowledge of the rules of the Highway Code. Here is a quick reminder of some rules for cyclists.
#1. Equipment
Well circular by bike, it is also well equipped. And some equipment is mandatory, such as reflectors on wheels and pedals; front and rear lightshorn and brake system.
The retro-reflective vest is mandatory outside urban areas and recommended in town. The helmet is compulsory for children under twelve, otherwise recommended. And beware, headphones or earphones are prohibited for cycling, at the risk of receiving a fixed fine of 135 euros.
#2. Can you ride a bike on a sidewalk?
This is often a point of tension between pedestrians and cyclists. Beyond 8 years old, it is strictly forbidden. Unless there is an appropriate cycle lane marked on the sidewalk. Cycling on sidewalks can lead to a fixed fine of €135 without loss of points.
#3. Can a cyclist use a pedestrian crossing?
The cyclist is designated from his bike to take a pedestrian crossing, unless a cycle lane is materialized next to it.
#4. Can a cyclist run a red light?
Like motorists, cyclists must respect traffic lights, at the risk of receiving a fixed fine of 135 euros. Unless an M12 panel is affixed to the traffic light. For the cyclist, it is the equivalent of a give way. It allows cyclists to pass when the light is red, if the conditions allow it and they go in the direction indicated by the yellow arrow(s).
#5. Are cyclists obliged to ride on cycle paths?
Two scenarios. If a square-shaped blue panel is located at the start of the track, the cyclist is not obliged to use it. On the other hand, if the panel is round, it is absolutely mandatory.
#6. Can we reassemble a file of stationary cars?
A Toulouse, at the foot of many traffic lights, there are bike locks that allow cyclists to stand in front of motorists at red lights. And to be able to turn in complete safety when the light turns green.
To join these bikes, cyclists are allowed to go up the line of cars stopped at a red light. Passing to the left if there are no cycle lanes on the right and without crossing the center line.
And it goes better by saying it: motorists are required to respect this bike lock. Otherwise, they are then liable to a 4th class fine, or 135 euros, and a withdrawal of four license points. This is indeed a failure to respect the stop line at a red light.
EN VIDEO. The rules to follow for circular cycling
Courses to learn how to cycle in town
La Maison du vélo is one of the resource centers for cyclists in Toulouse. Located just opposite the Matabiau station, the structure offers courses for those who want to learn to ride a bike, but also advanced sessions to learn how to ride better in the city.
Individual lessons for adults, lasting 1h30, thus allow, on a course of about ten kilometers, to realize with the cycling facilities, to know the main risks of accident for a cyclist and to know everything on the right behaviors to adopt. Count 45 euros per session.
As a little extra, the Maison du vélo can also accompany you on a defined route, for example between your home and your work and study with you the shortest or most secure route (price: 90 euros).
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