Is it allowed to use the bicycle path to the left of the carriageway by bicycle, and therefore to cycle in the opposite direction? If there is only a bicycle path on 1 side of the road, it seems obvious to me that this is allowed, but what if there are bicycle paths on the longest side? I have always been told that this is allowed for a short distance, is this correct?
Answer
On the following Touring website:
http://www.touring.be/nl/dagelijks-leven/onderweg-leren-rijders/wegcode/artikels/fietsers-fietspad/index.asp
as well as in the official highway code
http://www.wegcode.be/wet.php?wet=1&node=art9
you will find a clear answer to your question.
Summarized:
Only if the cycle path is indicated by a bicycle sign D7 or D9, you may under certain circumstances follow the cycle path against the direction of travel. For example, if you otherwise have to cross a dangerous street twice.
The statement that this is allowed for short distances is therefore not entirely correct, but will in most cases fall under “if special circumstances justify this”.
Answered by
lic. Dr. Physics Natasja Duhayon
Semiconductor technology, nanotechnology, microelectronics, physics, patents
Kapeldreef 75 3001 Leuven
http://www.imec-int.com
.