Cycling Etiquette
- Consider other riders and walkers on the road or path.
- When approaching others on the way, signal with a bell to warn of your arrival and passing
- Use turning hand signals to communicate to drivers and riders
Bicycle Rules in Spain:
- Helmets are required outside of urban areas, for all cyclists 16 years old and under all the time (exemptions for for periods of excessive heat, on steep hills and for professional cyclists). What defines a city center appears to be unclear and subject to police opinion, so best to wear helmets all the time. (200 Euro fine)
- Reflective clothing and lights must be installed and used when conditions require them (sunset to sunrise, tunnels), similar to when car lights would be required to be turned on. If avoiding night riding on the Camino, lights should not be required on your bicycle.
- Handsfree bluetooth and headphones are prohibited, even in only one ear. (190 Euro fine)
- Riding on motorways (toll and free) is prohibited. Riders over 14 can cycle on the shoulder of a toll-free motorway unless a sign states otherwise.
- Similar laws to driving where you could be fined: running a traffic light or stop sign, riding under the influence of alcohol, etc…
European Union Traffic Rules & Regulations
- Vehicle Regulations
- Have working brakes
- Have a bell
- Have a red reflector on the rear, have a device that can show a white or yellow light on the front
- Cycle Helmets (some laws are country dependent)
- In Spain, required to wear a helmet outside urban areas except when going uphill
- Traffic Rules
- Must keep one hand on handlebars, must not be towed by another vehicle or have a trailer that endangers other road users
- Stay to the right of the road (except UK, Ireland), use arm signals for turning
- Stay single file (country rules vary)
- Use cycle lands and tracks. Do not use motorways and highways.
- When walking or pushing bikes, cyclists are seen as pedestrians
Read more at ec.europa.eu
