6.13. Is it permitted for cyclists to ride on motorways, roads for motor vehicles, and the carriageway when there is a bicycle path nearby?
UAЧи дозволено велосипедистам рухатися автомагістралями, дорогами для автомобілів і проїзною частиною за наявності поруч велосипедної доріжки?
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This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns traffic safety on high-speed roads and the correct choice of route for cyclists. On motorways and roads for motor vehicles, traffic moves at high speed (with a minimum speed requirement), so the appearance of a slower participant creates a speed difference, forces drivers to maneuver, and increases the risk of accidents. That is why the traffic rules establish specific restrictions for cyclists.
The question tests knowledge of the section of the Traffic Rules regarding the movement of cyclists, in particular the requirements of clause 6.6 (b). This clause explicitly defines two key prohibitions: it is not allowed to enter motorways and roads for motor vehicles, and it is also not allowed to ride on the carriageway if there is a bicycle path nearby that runs in the same direction as your movement. This is a typical situation for the theoretical exam, where it is important to distinguish "where it is allowed," "where it is not allowed," and which element of infrastructure has priority for the cyclist.
An option that allows a cyclist to travel on a motorway, a road for motor vehicles, or on the carriageway when there is a bicycle path nearby contradicts the direct provision of the Traffic Rules and the logic of safety: on a high-speed section, a cyclist cannot consistently maintain the flow's pace, and if there is a cycle path, entering the carriageway only creates unnecessary conflict with cars. Instead, the correct option is consistent with clause 6.6 (b) and explains that safe movement of a cyclist on such routes should take place outside the high-speed carriageway and, if possible, on the bicycle path.
Clause 6.6 (b) of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine
On motorways and roads for automobiles, traffic is organized at speeds not lower than 40 km/h; therefore, cyclists are prohibited from entering such roads. To ensure the safety of cyclists, they are prohibited from entering the carriageway if there is a bicycle path nearby that runs in the desired direction of the cyclist's movement.
Explanation of application: this clause directly establishes two prohibitions, which are checked by the question — (1) the prohibition of cyclists moving on motorways and roads for automobiles; (2) the prohibition of riding on the carriageway if there is a bicycle path nearby in the required direction.
Thus, the correct answer is "Prohibited," given that according to the definition in Clause 6.6 (b) of the Traffic Rules, cyclists are directly prohibited from moving on motorways, roads for automobiles, and entering the carriageway if there is a bicycle path in the same direction nearby.
When it comes to a motorway or a road for motor vehicles, it is important to remember that these are high-speed roads where vehicles travel at high speeds, and there is also a requirement for a minimum speed limit. A cyclist physically cannot consistently maintain a pace that meets such conditions, and due to their significantly lower speed, they become an unexpected obstacle for the traffic flow.
Imagine a situation: cars are moving quickly, drivers expect a uniform flow, and suddenly a cyclist appears ahead, traveling much slower. This forces drivers to abruptly change lanes or brake, which on a high-speed road creates an increased risk of an accident. That is why the Rules directly prohibit cyclists from entering motorways and roads for motor vehicles.
The Rules also separately establish a requirement regarding the choice of where a cyclist should ride: if there is a cycle path next to the carriageway and its direction matches your direction of travel, you must use the cycle path and not the carriageway. This is done to separate traffic flows, reduce the number of conflict situations, and increase safety for all road users.
Therefore, the correct answer is "Prohibited," since cyclists are not allowed to travel on motorways and roads for motor vehicles, and if there is a cycle path nearby in the appropriate direction, they are also prohibited from riding on the carriageway.