Since 2012, cities in France have had the option to allow cyclists to cross intersections during red lights. Initially limited to right turns, the rule was later expanded to other directions. Intersections must display the appropriate signs (M12) or lights (R19), which indicate the specific rule and direction. The introduction of the M12 sign and R19 light aimed to reduce accidents involving cyclists going straight while trams, buses, and lorries turned right, often with the cyclists in the drivers' blind spots.
The City of Lyon and CEREMA, conducted a study on cyclist behaviour at ten intersections equipped with M12 signs or R19 lights. The aim was to assess whether these measures could promote cycling in Lyon, as outlined in the city's Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan. Conducted in 2023, the study monitored cyclist behaviour at these intersections before the new rule was introduced, shortly after, and again six months later.
The study found that cyclists needed time to adapt to the new regulations. Only half of the cyclists noticed the traffic signs or lights, and even fewer were aware of their meaning, highlighting the need for better road-user education. The research revealed that M12 signs essentially legalised behaviour that cyclists were already practising, as many had been crossing red lights at similar rates before. In contrast, the R19 lights proved effective at encouraging the intended behaviour, particularly during tram traffic phases. Consequently, CEREMA recommended promoting the use of R19 lights for cyclists crossing red lights. While the study did not show an increase in accidents or a significant improvement in road safety, it suggested the importance of these measures in light of the growing number of cyclists.
Similar regulations exist in other countries. In Vienna, right turns at red lights are permitted at around 300 intersections, while German cities have reported positive experiences with similar rules. In Belgium, the right-turn rule is already in place, and recent efforts are expanding the rule to include other traffic directions.
Author: Claus Köllinger
Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
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- Publication date
- 8 October 2024 (Last updated on: 7 October 2024)
- Topic
- Policy and research
- Country
- France