By Lee Hyo-sik
The government plans to force motorists to share a lane with cyclists on cities’ major roads as part of its efforts to promote bicycling.
The Ministry of Public Administration and Security said it is considering allowing bicycle riders to use a lane bordering pedestrian passages.
Cyclists will be given priority over motorists who have to drive their vehicles at less than 30 kilometers per hour on the right-side lane in city centers and give way to those who ride bicycles.
``We are currently considering a system adopted by the U.S. city of Portland in Oregon. We will make a final decision on whether to introduce the `bicycle-prioritized-lane’ after a series of meetings with officials from the National Police Agency and other related bodies,’’ a ministry official said.
The official said cyclists will be required to wear helmets at all times and ride at less than 20 kilometers per hour.
``Currently, there is no law regulating bicycle speeds. We will set a speed limit at 20 kilometers per hour to stop riders from speeding and prevent accidents. We plan to revise relevant laws by the first half of 2012.’’