The pedestrian association “Fuss e.V”. is calling for higher fines for cyclists riding on sidewalks. According to board member Roland Stimpel, quoted by the “Rheinische Post”, the spring surge of cyclists evokes mixed feelings. On the one hand, it is encouraging to see many cyclists who stay on the road or in the cycle lane, traveling quietly, emission‑free and relatively slowly. On the other hand, Stimpel worries that more riders are again venturing onto sidewalks and hiking paths in the green areas. Therefore, he urges cyclists to avoid sidewalks, noting that such traffic is usually prohibited. “Heavy car traffic and hard pavement on the road are no excuse for sidewalk riding. If you want to avoid it, you can choose a different route or take a few extra centimeters” he said.
Fortunately, many cyclists are careful, but for the reckless and hurried ones he sees a need for increased monitoring and, ideally, higher penalties. In France, for example, the fines for riding on sidewalks can reach up to €135, the expert added.
