Navigating Cycle Lanes & Tracks : A Motorist's Guide to Rule 140

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Highway Code Rule 140

📖 Rule 140 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 140 ↗
Cycle lanes and cycle tracks. Cycle lanes are shown by road markings and signs. You MUST NOT drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a solid white line during its times of operation. Do not drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a broken white line unless it is unavoidable. You MUST NOT park in any cycle lane whilst waiting restrictions apply.

You should give way to any cyclists in a cycle lane, including when they are approaching from behind you – do not cut across them when you are turning or when you are changing lane (see Rule H3). Be prepared to stop and wait for a safe gap in the flow of cyclists before crossing the cycle lane.

Cycle tracks are routes for cyclists that are physically protected or located away from motor traffic, other than where they cross side roads. Cycle tracks may be shared with pedestrians.

You should give way to cyclists approaching or using the cycle track when you are turning into or out of a junction (see Rule H3). Be prepared to stop and wait for a safe gap in the flow of cyclists before crossing the cycle track, which may be used by cyclists travelling in both directions.

Bear in mind that cyclists are not obliged to use cycle lanes or cycle tracks.

Law RTRA sects 5 & 8

Text shown in the rule image

Navigating Cycle Lanes & Tracks : A Motorist's Guide to Rule 140

CYCLE LANES ( On - Road Markings )

Cycle Lanes are part of the carriage - way

These are designated by road markings and signs , existing directly on the road surface alongside motor traffic .

CYCLE TRACKS ( Physically Separated )

Cycle Tracks are physically protected

These routes are located away from motor traffic or physically separated , except where they cross side roads .

Solid White Line = Strict Prohibition You MUST NOT drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a solid white line during its times of operation .

Broken White Lines mean " Avoid "

Do not drive or park in a lane with a broken white line unless it is strictly unavoidable .

Parking Restrictions Apply

Motorists MUST NOT park in any cycle lane while waiting restrictions are in effect .

Watch for Two - Way Traffic

Unlike standard road lanes , cycle tracks may be used by cyclists traveling in both directions simultaneously .

DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES & SAFETY

Give Way When Turning

You should give way to cyclists approaching or using a track or lane when you are turning into or out of a junction .

Shared Usage with Pedestrians

Be aware that cycle tracks are not always exclusive to bikes ; they may be shared with pedestrians .

Do Not " Cut Across " Cyclists

Give way to cyclists in lanes even if they are approaching from behind you ; do not cut across them when changing lanes .

Wait for a Safe Gap: Moterists should be prepared to stop and wait for a safe gap in the flow of cyclists before attempting to cross a lane or track .

Use of Lanes is Not Compulsory

Always beer in mind that cyclists are not legally obliged to use cycle janes or tracks and may choose to ride in the main traffic lane .