New Hungarian traffic rules for bicycles and e-scooters on the horizon

New details have emerged regarding upcoming changes to Hungarian traffic rules affecting cyclists, electric scooter users, and pedestrians. Revisions may also be introduced for pedestrian crossings. Those involved in the preparatory work aim to make the regulations more uniform and transparent.

The Ministry of Construction and Transport, alongside the Institute of Transport Science and Logistics, are drafting a new Highway Code to clarify existing Hungarian traffic rules. Plans are expected to be submitted to the government by 31 March 2025, 24.hu reports. The details were recently discussed in a background briefing.

Helmets could become mandatory for cyclists

Ágnes Fülöp, a retired judge specialising in transport law, said that helmet use for cyclists would gradually become mandatory. Under the proposed phased introduction, from the regulation’s enforcement date, those under the age of 14 would be required to wear protective headgear. Fülöp noted that helmet use is somewhat generational: younger individuals are generally more accustomed to using protective equipment, while it comes less naturally for older people.

The new Hungarian traffic rules would also distinguish between types of bicycles. A “normal” bicycle would be defined as a two-wheeled vehicle powered by pedals or hand grips, supported by a motor of up to 1,000 watts, and with a maximum speed of 25 km/h. In contrast, “special” bicycles would include cargo bikes, bike trailers, and rickshaws.

The draft proposals also suggest creating special cycling zones, accessible only to cyclists, other small transport vehicles, and pedestrians. There are plans to introduce regulations for cycle crossings, a concept not currently recognised under Hungarian traffic laws. The proposed code would allow cyclists to cross zebra crossings without dismounting, provided they are already riding on the pavement, although they would not have priority at pedestrian crossings and must ride at a maximum speed of 4 km/h.

Cyclist in the inner city of Budapest.
Photo: Pixabay

Hungarian traffic rules for electric scooters to finally be clarified

The plans also include defining the status of electric scooters within the Highway Code. Róbert Major, head of the Department of Public Safety at the Faculty of Police Sciences at the National University of Public Service, stressed that when introducing new modes of transport, the priority is to first clearly define them before establishing usage rules.

According to current proposals regarding Hungarian traffic rules, the legislation would classify e-scooters as vehicles with a power output of less than 1,000 watts, weighing less than 35 kilograms, or with a maximum speed of 25 km/h on level ground. They must also have at least two wheels and be steered on a single axle, with the driver standing. These e-scooters would be subject to the same regulations as bicycles, meaning no licence or protective equipment would be required.

On the other hand, high-power motorised scooters, exceeding 1,000 watts, weighing over 35 kilograms, or capable of speeds over 25 km/h, would be regulated like mopeds. This would require helmets, compulsory insurance, and prohibit their use on pavements or cycle lanes.

Electric scooters at Astoria. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Changes to pedestrian crossing rules also proposed

According to Róbert Major, pedestrian crossing rules could also see reforms. The new regulations would provide a clearer definition of who qualifies as a pedestrian under Hungarian traffic laws – for instance, specifying that someone pushing a motorbike while walking is considered a pedestrian.

Under the proposed Hungarian traffic rules, pedestrian right of way at zebra crossings would be extended. Currently, pedestrians have the right of way once they step off the pavement. In the future, they would gain the right of way as soon as they visibly indicate their intention to cross. On multi-lane roads, drivers would be required to stop if a pedestrian is approaching in an adjacent lane.

“This is not a far-fetched idea; it is already common practice in Western Europe. Although this regulation may seem complex, we believe Hungarian traffic culture requires precise and well-defined rules,” added Róbert Major.

The proposed Hungarian traffic rules would also reinforce the priority of pedestrians in traffic scenarios.

Read also:

• Important: e-scooters now require compulsory insurance in Hungary
• Attention: Major changes ahead for Budapest’s busy Nyugati Square

Source: 24.hu