The Chamber of Deputies adopted new rules for motorcycles, including conditional access to public transport lanes

On Wednesday, the Chamber of Deputies adopted, with 238 votes in favor, three against and 15 abstentions, a bill amending the Road Traffic Code that introduces new rules for motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles. The law is not yet effective: it must be promulgated by the president and published in the Official Gazette.

Motorcycles and mopeds will be allowed to use lanes reserved for public transport only if the road administrator permits this, and access is indicated by signage. The rule will not automatically apply to all bus lanes.

Riders of motorcycles without sidecars, moped riders and cyclists will be allowed to move alongside queues stopped at traffic lights or at barriers at railway crossings, provided there is enough lateral space, they do not obstruct other road users and they do not exceed 20 km/h. The maneuver will remain prohibited alongside queues stopped at pedestrian crossings.

The bill allows motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles to be parked on the sidewalk, parallel to the road, while maintaining a free area of at least one meter for pedestrians. Road administrators will have to arrange free parking spaces for motorcycles and mopeds in public car parks with at least six spaces for cars.

In addition, three-meter safety spaces will be created in front of vehicles stopped at traffic lights or railway crossings. The government will have 60 days from the law’s entry into force to update the traffic regulations. Until then, the current rules will apply.