This sign surrounded by a blue square is placed on most small roads in France to facilitate circulation between vehicles and cyclists. Here are the rules to know.
The signs are so numerous that we sometimes forget their meaning. Priority rules are most of the time well known to motorists, who must give way to pedestrians and cyclists. But on certain narrow roads, a sign appears in France. It is a rectangular sign surrounded by a blue frame with arrows, put in place to facilitate circulation between vehicles and bicycles. But what does it mean exactly?
This sign is found on roadways which are divided into three lanes: the central lane for two-way traffic of cars, trucks or motorcycles, and two lanes on the sides for bicycles. But what do you do when you’re driving in one lane and another vehicle is coming in front of you? This is where the sign called “Chaucidou” (a contraction of “roadway” and “gentle”) takes on its full meaning since it makes it possible to define the priority rules on these roadways with an unmarked central lane.
Concretely, if the road is clear, the vehicle can travel in the center of the road. If a car arrives in front of us, both vehicles will have to move slightly to the side of the road, checking that no cyclist is in the lanes reserved for them. Finally, third scenario: if a car arrives in front of us and cyclists are on the cycle paths, priority is given to bicycles. The cars must then let them pass, then turn to the side. Once the vehicle has passed, it is possible to overtake the bike and finally reposition yourself on the central lane. Please note that motorcycles must respect the same rules as vehicles.
Generally, these roadways are installed when traffic is light and visibility is clear on the road (no bends, but straight lines). However, motorists should adapt their pace given that it is a single two-way lane.