| Bicycles
on the Road Bicycle riders on the
public streets have the same rights and responsibilities as all other vehicle operators.
Bicyclists should always obey all traffic laws, signals and signs, as well as:
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Never ride against the flow of
traffic. |
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Stop at all stop signs and red
lights. |
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Always ride as far to the
right as possible. |
Bicyclists legally may make left turns from the left
lanes as well as move left to avoid parked vehicles, and to pass other vehicles or
bicycles.
When driving near or behind a bicycle, expect that the
rider may have to swerve suddenly to avoid a car door opening or uneven pavement.
Required Bicycle Safety
Equipment
California Law requires all riders under 18 years of age
to wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet whenever they are on the road.
This helmet must be labeled to show that it meets applicable safety standards.
Violation of this law is punishable by a fine.
All bicycle passengers under 18 must also wear helmets,
including children in attached bicycle seats or in towed trailers.
All bicyclists are required by law to have reflectors on
their bikes and are expected to wear bright or reflective clothing at night.
New for 2003
As of January 2003
California law requires all persons under 18 years of
age to wear a properly-fitted and fastened bicycle helmet
while operating a bicycle or riding upon a bicycle as
a passenger, operating a non-motorized scooter or skateboard,
wearing in-line or roller skates, or while riding upon
a non-motorized scooter or skateboard as a passenger.
Bicycle Lanes
A solid white line along either side of the street,
four or more feet from the curb, marks a bicycle lane.
This line will usually become a broken, or dashed line
near intersections.
Do not drive in a bike lane unless you are making a
right turn at a corner or other entrance, such as a
driveway. If you are, drive your vehicle into
the bike lane no more than 200 feet from the entrance
or corner before your turn.
Watch for bikes before entering the bike lane.
Pedestrians are not allowed in bike lanes when there
are sidewalks. Drivers of motorized bicycles should
use bike lanes carefully to avoid accidents with bicycle
riders.
You may usually park your vehicle in the bike lane
unless signs say "No Parking."
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