The Lithuanian government has backed significant changes to the traffic rules with novelties such as cycling streets, A+ driving lanes and special traffic lights for public transport.
The government passed the amendments on September 15. According to the planned changes from June 2022, some streets in town centers and resorts can be designated as “bicycle streets”. Cyclists will be allowed driving along the entire width of such streets, while cars and other vehicles will have to observe a speed limit of 30 km/h.
“Cyclists don’t have to keep to the side of the street, in other words, they are an equal vehicle to all the others,” Transport Minister Marius Skuodis said while presenting the changes September 14.
Cyclists argue that Lithuanian towns would need to do more to become bike-friendly.
“Putting a speed limit sign is not all, or marking a “bicycle street”. Unless the surrounding infrastructure gives a sense that cyclists are safe here, then what’s the point?” says Paulius Bakutis, head of the Lithuanian Cyclists Association. “It only distorts the situation.”
At the same time, new traffic signs will be introduced to regulate electric scooters that have become ubiquitous in Lithuania’s main cities in recent years. Some streets with intense pedestrian traffic will be made off-limits for electric bikes and electric scooters.
A new rule will oblige electric car owners to vacate charging spots as soon as they finish charging.
Some amendments are aimed at improving traffic conditions for public transport. New lanes, marked “A” and equipped with special white traffic lights, will be reserved for public transport.
Another category of lanes, “A+”, will be also open to bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles and cars servicing people with disabilities. (BNN/Business World Magazine)
