Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 May 2004
171 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the nature of the legal obligations on cyclists in respect of lighting, bells and other equipment; if he has satisfied himself that road safety practices in cycling here are up to best practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15993/04]
View answerI refer to my reply to Question No. 199 of 26 May 2004.
Under road traffic regulations a pedal cycle is required to have a rear reflector fitted and to be equipped with front and rear lamps that are lit when being used in a public place during lighting up hours. In addition, it must have an efficient braking system and be fitted with a bell that is capable of being heard at a reasonable distance. The Road Traffic Acts provide the basis for the application of a range of controls and restrictions on pedal cyclists. Many of the controls, some of which also apply to other traffic, are provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998.
The regulations provide for two types of cycle tracks, namely, mandatory cycle tracks, which are indicated by a continuous white line, which cyclists must use and other vehicles must not enter, except for access to premises, and non-mandatory cycle tracks which are indicated by a broken white line from which cyclists may depart in certain circumstances, for example, to pass a stopped bus or change direction at a junction, and which other vehicles are restricted from entering — save in very particular circumstances.
