Cycling is a highly popular outdoor activity, with more than 51 million people cycling to work in the US annually. However, this popularity comes with the responsibility of cyclists to understand and adhere to the rules of the road. Far from being an unregulated activity, cycling on public roadways is subject to many of the same laws governing motor vehicles. Understanding the rules of the road a cyclist must follow is crucial for safety and for fostering a harmonious environment for all road users.
Treating Bicycles as Vehicles
The fundamental principle governing cycling in the US is that bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists are granted the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles. This means that cyclists must obey all traffic laws, including traffic signals, stop signs, and lane markings. Just as a car must stop at a red light, so too must a bicycle.
Failing to do so not only puts the cyclist at risk but also contributes to negative perceptions of cyclists as reckless or disregarding the law. Additionally, ignoring traffic laws is often a contributing factor in bicycle collisions with cars and buses, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
Lane Positioning and Yielding
Cyclists are generally required to ride on the right side of the road, as close as practicable to the curb or edge of the roadway. However, there are important exceptions to this rule. Cyclists may move away from the right edge when passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn, avoiding hazards in the road (like potholes or storm grates), or when the lane is too narrow to share safely with a motor vehicle.
In such cases, cyclists are encouraged to “take the lane,” meaning they position themselves in the center of the lane to enhance their visibility and discourage unsafe passing by motorists. When approaching intersections, cyclists must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles as required by traffic laws, just like any other vehicle.
Signaling and Awareness
Just like drivers, cyclists must communicate their intentions to other road users. This includes using hand signals for turns and stops. While not always strictly enforced, proper hand signals can prevent accidents and make a cyclist’s movements predictable.
Moreover, maintaining situational awareness is paramount. This means actively looking for hazards, listening for approaching vehicles, and making eye contact with drivers and pedestrians. Wearing bright clothing, especially during the day, and reflective gear at night significantly increases a cyclist’s visibility.
Lighting and Equipment Requirements
For nighttime riding, almost all states require bicycles to be equipped with a front white light visible from at least 500 feet and a rear red reflector visible from at least 600 feet. Many cyclists opt for an additional rear red light for enhanced visibility. While helmet laws vary by state and age, wearing a helmet is universally recommended for all cyclists as it significantly reduces the risk of head injuries in the event of a fall or collision.
Beyond lights and helmets, ensuring your bicycle is in good working order with functional brakes and inflated tires is also crucial for safety.
Pavement, Sidewalks, and Other Regulations
In many jurisdictions, riding on sidewalks is prohibited, especially in business districts, due to the increased risk of conflicts with pedestrians and vehicles entering/exiting driveways. Cyclists should always check local ordinances regarding sidewalk riding.
Additionally, cyclists are generally prohibited from riding abreast (side-by-side) if it impedes the normal flow of traffic. Some states also have specific laws regarding cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs, treating it similarly to operating a motor vehicle while impaired.
Understanding the rules of the road a cyclist must follow is not just about avoiding tickets; it’s about ensuring safety for everyone on the road. By adhering to traffic laws, using appropriate signaling, maintaining their bicycles, and being aware of their surroundings, cyclists can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience for themselves and for all road users.
