Laws Every Bike Rider Needs to Know
Posted Friday, December 7, 2018 by Chris Thayer
Riding a bike is a popular way to get around because it is environmentally friendly, healthy, and enjoyable. There are many benefits to riding a bike, but in order to enjoy these benefits you need to ride safely. Bike riders are subject to laws and regulations just like automobile drivers on the road. However, bicycles are subject to some different laws, and it is essential to know these before hitting the road. Bike laws can be broken down into different categories, mainly, operational and safety.
*Operational Laws*Operating laws refer to the laws surrounding the operation of bikes in public. The following are the main laws that riders must follow:
- Riding a bicycle on the road: When riding in the road, bicyclists are treated as if they were operating a vehicle. This means that a bike rider “has all the responsibilities of a vehicle driver.” Additionally, a bike rider can be ticketed for violating traffic laws.
- Riding next to other bikes: The law states that bike riders are permitted to ride next to each other inthe same lane, but only if they are no more than two across. More than two riders must ride in front or behind of each other.
- Road Closures: While bikes are permitted on roadways, they are not permitted on every road. There are some sections of the highway system that are off limit to bikes. There also may be other limitations on bike riding, as outlined by local governments and ordinances.
- Location on the road: Bikes on the road must choose between riding on a bike path (if present), the shoulder of the road, or a travel lane (if present). Bikes do not have free reign of an entire lane of traffic.
Safety Laws
Operational laws are also meant to keep riders safe, but there are some laws in place specifically targeting the rider’s safety:
- Helmets: There is no state law that mandates the use of a helmet. However cities and counties do have helmet laws applicable in their area. Bellevue, Kent, and Renton all have laws in place that require riders to wear a helmet, regardless of their age.
- Night Riding: When a bike rider is out at night, they must have a white front light that is visible for at least 500 feet. This light is not a reflector; a red rear reflector is also required separately. If a rider does not have a red rear reflector, they are permitted to use a red rear light instead.
- Children: Parents of children on bikes must be conscious of their children’s actions and not knowingly permit their children to commit traffic violations.
If you enjoy riding bikes, for whatever reason, it is important to know the laws to which you are subject. Even when following all pertinent laws, accidents and injuries still happen. If you have been injured in a bike accident, the personal injury attorneys at Pivotal Law Group are here to help you. Contact us today for a consultation and find out how you might be able to receive compensation for your injury.