Free ride at red light for cyclists
Traffic
The first traffic light, at which cyclists are allowed to continue despite being red, is in operation in the Salzburg district of Schallmoos. Lawyers warn against blindly cycling on. Despite everything, other road users still had priority.
A new amendment to the road traffic regulations has been in force since October 1st. This allows the authority to designate intersections where you can turn right or go straight, even when the traffic light is red. The first crossing in the city of Salzburg is the T-junction between Schallmooser Hauptstrasse and Vogelweiderstrasse, where cyclists can now drive straight ahead on a red light, heading out of town. A small additional sign next to the traffic light gives permission. It also applies to electric scooters.
But that’s not carte blanche, warns traffic lawyer Marlene Pauer from the ÖAMTC motorists’ club: “It’s important that cyclists stop in front of the traffic lights and make sure that no other road users are coming. It is particularly important to pay attention to pedestrians here”.
Four more crossings
This regulation will come at four other intersections: at another one along Schallmooser Hauptstraße, an intersection at Mirabellplatz, one at Paracelsusstraße and one at Schwarzstraße – all in the Andräviertel district.
Experts made the decision for these five locations based on local inspections. And it might not be the last. Because until spring and generally better cycling weather, other crossings will be checked where cyclists can go straight or turn right despite the red light.