Each year, bicyclists are needlessly killed and injured due to collisions with motor vehicles. In most jurisdictions, a bicycle is considered a vehicle and laws that govern operation of motor vehicles also govern bicycles. it is the responsibility of bicyclists to know the rules that govern safe and lawful behavior – for oneself and toward others. While it is incumbent upon those in motor vehicles to be aware of rights pertaining to bicyclists, as a bicyclist, knowing and following bicycle laws can also save your life. Laws governing bicycles range from vehicle maintenance to safe operations and while there are numerous regulations, these guidelines stand out as the most important to follow for safety and well-being.
Keep Right ~ Share the Path
Bicycles must be ridden in single file, as close to the right hand curb as possible – except for under special conditions. Bicycles shall not impede upon other traffic or pedestrians and should drive with the direction of travel, rather than against it. According to the Department of Transportation, driving against traffic accounts for 15% of bicycle / motor vehicle collisions.
Safety Equipment
In many jurisdictions, a properly equipped bicycle should have a bell or horn, at least one braking system on the rear wheel, a white front light, and a red rear light or reflector. Some require white reflective tape on front forks and red strips rear forks. Many areas require the use of helmets, especially for those under 18.
Signals
It is vital to know how to signal to others what your intentions are. Here are the basic arm signals:
~ to turn left – extend the left arm horizontally
~ to turn right- extending right arm horizontally
~ to stop or suddenly reduce speed – extending the left hand and arm downward.
There are many other laws that one must become familiar regarding lane changes, passing, driving on freeways and dealing with intersections, where over 60% of collisions happen. But even following bicycle regulations is not enough to protect bicyclists when those driving motor vehicles operate in dangerous and careless manners. Find out what to do if you are involved in an accident. In the US, one can check state bicycle laws here.
It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure road safety. If you have been involved in a collision, know your rights: contact a lawyer.