Bicycle Crossing
The sign indicates that there is a bicycle crossing where cyclists have priority.
When You See This Sign
When you see sign B8 you should immediately reduce your speed, look both ways and be prepared to stop. You must give way to cyclists who are on or intend to use the cycle crossing and must not block it.
Rules & Regulations
- You must give way to cyclists who are on or clearly intend to use the cycle crossing.
- You must not drive onto or stop on the cycle crossing in a way that prevents cyclists from passing.
- Traffic signals (light control) and directions from police take precedence over the sign; if such exist you must follow them first.
- The priority applies to cyclists from both directions on the crossing and applies to all motor vehicles that cross it.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce your speed well in advance when you see the B8 sign and be prepared to stop even if you do not immediately see cyclists.
- Scan both right and left before you cross the cycle crossing — cyclists may come quickly or in groups.
- Let cyclists pass completely and wait until the crossing is clear; avoid accelerating past when a cyclist is just passing.
- Avoid parking or stopping just before the crossing; clear sight lines and unobstructed passage for cyclists are important.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking the sign only applies if a cyclist is already on the crossing — it also applies when a cyclist clearly intends to use it.
- Confusing the cycle crossing with a pedestrian crossing and believing pedestrians automatically have the same priority.
- Trying to pass or catch up with cyclists on the crossing itself instead of waiting until they have passed.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Bicycle Crossing
What applies at this sign for crossing traffic?
- A It is a bicycle crossing — cyclists have priority and you must yield to them.
- B It is a marked footpath — pedestrians have priority, but cyclists must wait.
- C It is a cycle lane on the carriageway — cyclists must use this lane but have no right of way.
- D Parking area specifically intended for bicycles — vehicles may not pass.
Exam Tip
On the theory test a question may address when the priority applies — answer that it applies both when the cyclist is already using the crossing and when they clearly intend to do so, and that traffic lights always take precedence over the sign.
Did You Know?
The cycle crossing sign is often used where separate cycle lanes cross streets in urban areas and was introduced to highlight cyclists' priority and increase traffic safety in mixed traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the cycle crossing apply around the clock?
Yes, traffic signs generally apply around the clock. Only temporary instructions from the police or temporary road signs/light signals can change what applies.
Does the priority also apply to electric scooters?
The priority applies to road users who are legally classified as cyclists or bicycles. Some electric scooters and similar vehicles may be included if they are legally classified as bicycles; in cases of uncertainty it is assessed individually.
What do I do if there are traffic lights at the same location?
Traffic lights take precedence over the road sign, so follow the light signals. The sign only applies when light signals are absent or not functioning.
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