A fine on a bicycle: which rules and penalties apply to cyclists

Cycling is not a law-free space: traffic rules apply on a bicycle too, and violations can cost warning or regular fines. For some violations, points in Flensburg even loom. Anyone who knows the most important rules avoids trouble.

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The rules of the road traffic regulations (StVO) apply to cyclists. Typical violations are phone use, riding on the sidewalk, red-light violations, and riding the wrong way on cycle paths. For more serious violations (e.g. a qualified red-light violation), there are also points.

You can file an objection against a fine notice within two weeks, just like for drivers, for example if the accusation is wrong or the signage was unclear.

What you should do now

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1. Check the accusation
See which specific violation is alleged and whether it applies (signage, traffic-light phase, situation).
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2. Know the rules
Cycle-path use, the phone ban, blood-alcohol limits, and lighting are among the common points of dispute, inform yourself about the applicable rule.
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3. Consider an objection
If the accusation is wrong or the situation unclear, file an objection on time and secure evidence.
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4. Consider the consequences
Serious violations can bring points and, with alcohol, even affect your fitness to drive a car.

How to spot the scam

You use your phone on the handlebars, that costs as a cyclist too.
You cycle with a clear alcohol level and risk far more than a fine.
You ride on the wrong side of the cycle path (going the wrong way).

Frequently asked questions

Can cyclists get points?

Yes, for more serious violations. A simple red-light violation usually only costs a warning fine; a qualified one (light red for more than one second) or an endangerment can also bring a point.

Does a phone ban also apply on a bicycle?

Yes. Cyclists too may not pick up the phone while riding. A violation is punished with a warning fine that is lower than for a car but is nonetheless incurred.

What applies with alcohol on a bicycle?

Even conspicuous riding can have consequences above certain blood-alcohol levels; above a high level you are considered absolutely unfit to ride even on a bicycle. This can have criminal consequences and affect your fitness to drive a car.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.