Can I Ride A Bike On The Sidewalk? Bike Laws Explained
Key Facts:
The laws around riding your bike on the sidewalk vary by State, with some States allowing it and others strictly prohibiting it. You can check the laws for your State in this guide.
When riding on the sidewalk, make sure you yield to pedestrians as they have the right of way as well as on multi-use paths.
Intro
With the increase in bike traffic across the US, many States are creating separate bike lanes to help reduce bike accidents with motor vehicles. For those less confident on two wheels, these provide a vital “safe space” away from cars. But what if there is no bike lane? Are you able to ride your bike on the sidewalk? In this guide, we look at the different laws across the US, to help you understand your rights on two wheels.
Can I Ride A Bike On The Sidewalk? Laws by State
Whilst a lot of countries in the world have a standard set of bicycle laws, in the US, the rules are different across all the various states. Below is a summary of the rules by law:
In Alabama, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Bicycles are not allowed on sidewalks, and riders must obey traffic signs and signals. They are also required to ride as far to the right as practicable, except when making a left turn
- Bicycles are defined as vehicles and generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. Motor vehicle drivers are required to pass bicyclists at least three feet of clearance on all roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less.
- Bicyclists must exercise due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction
- There are specific regulations regarding the use of bicycles, such as the prohibition against attaching a bicycle to another vehicle and the requirement to ride on designated bicycle paths when available
In the US state of Alaska, riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is generally allowed, with the exception of riding on sidewalks in business districts or where an official traffic-control prohibits it. Cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians and ride with caution. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Alaska.
In Arizona, there is no state law prohibiting sidewalk cycling, so it is permitted. However, it’s important to note that local authorities are granted the authority to regulate all aspects of bicycle operation, including sidewalk cycling. Therefore, specific cities or areas within Arizona may have their own set of restrictions and requirements regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. It’s advisable to check local ordinances and regulations regarding sidewalk cycling in the specific area of interest.
In Arkansas, there is no statewide law in Arkansas that prohibits riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. The specific rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles.
- There is no statewide law in Arkansas that prohibits riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. However, local authorities are allowed to regulate the operation of bicycles on the sidewalk within their respective jurisdictions.
- It’s important to be aware of local ordinances and regulations regarding sidewalk cycling in specific cities or areas within Arkansas, as they may have their own set of restrictions and requirements.
For detailed and specific information, it’s recommended to refer to local ordinances and regulations in the particular area of interest within Arkansas.
In California, there is no statewide law that specifically allows or prohibits riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. According to the California Vehicle Code Section 21206, local governments have the authority to set their own rules regarding sidewalk cycling. As a result, the regulations for riding a bicycle on the sidewalk can vary from city to city and county to county. For instance, some cities in California, such as Carlsbad, El Cajon, Escondido, National City, and Vista, have banned cycling on sidewalks, while others, like Los Angeles and Santa Clarita, allow it with certain conditions. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of and comply with the specific local ordinances and regulations regarding sidewalk cycling in the particular area of interest within California.
In Colorado, there is no statewide law that bans bicyclists from riding on sidewalks. However, local ordinances may vary, and some cities may have specific regulations regarding sidewalk cycling. For example, Denver has banned the use of bicycles on sidewalks within city limits, except in certain circumstances. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of and comply with the specific local ordinances and regulations regarding sidewalk cycling in the particular area of interest within Colorado.
In Connecticut, bicycles are allowed to operate on sidewalks and crosswalks, provided that cyclists yield to the right-of-way of any pedestrian and give an audible signal when passing
Bicycles are defined as vehicles and generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. Motor vehicle drivers are required to pass bicyclists at a safe distance, and cyclists must exercise due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction
It’s important to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Connecticut.
In Delaware, bicycles are allowed to be operated on sidewalks or crosswalks, as stated in Title 21, Delaware Code Section 4198B. However, riders must yield to pedestrian traffic and are not allowed to ride on any sidewalk or crosswalk. Cyclists need to yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and give an audible signal before overtaking
This information should be considered when cycling in Delaware to ensure compliance with the state’s regulations.
In Florida, bicycle riding on sidewalks is permitted. According to Section 316.2065 of the Florida Statutes, a person propelling a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, has all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances. However, cyclists riding on the sidewalk must yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and give an audible signal before overtaking. It’s important to note that bicycles are considered vehicles in Florida, and cyclists are subject to all traffic laws. Additionally, specific equipment requirements, such as having a headlight and reflectors, are mandated for riding after sunset or before sunrise.
In Georgia, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Bicyclists over the age of 12 are not legally permitted to ride on sidewalks unless a local ordinance allows. It’s important to check local ordinances for variations on this rule.
- Bicycles are defined as vehicles and generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles, with certain specified exceptions. Motor vehicle drivers are required to pass bicyclists at a safe distance of not less than three feet.
- Bicycles are legally classified as vehicles in Georgia, and general traffic law applies to their operation. However, the vehicular code and various regulations include many specific qualifications for different classes of vehicles, including bicycles.
It’s important to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Georgia.
In Hawaii, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Bicycles are prohibited from being ridden on the sidewalks in a business district, such as Downtown Honolulu and Waikīkī. However, in areas other than business or prohibited districts, bicycles may be ridden on sidewalks provided the speed is 10 mph or less. The bicycle operator must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, giving an audible signal before overtaking them.
- Bicycles equipped with a motor are not allowed on any sidewalk in Hawaii.
- Residential areas are exempt from the restriction on riding bicycles on the sidewalk, allowing cycling on the sidewalk in places with just houses around.
It’s important to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Hawaii.
In Idaho, cyclists are permitted to ride on the sidewalk, but they must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing. However, cyclists are not allowed to ride on sidewalks or crosswalks where the use of bicycles is prohibited by official traffic control devices. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Idaho.
In Illinois, bicycles are generally prohibited from being ridden on the sidewalks, although there may be variations in this rule based on local ordinances. In Chicago, riding on the sidewalk is illegal unless the sidewalk is marked as a bike path, or if the cyclist is going to a nearby bike station or crossing to get there. Additionally, in other areas of Illinois, it is generally illegal to ride a bike on the sidewalk if you are over 12 years old, with some exceptions such as going to a bike station or crossing to get there.
It’s important to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Illinois.
In the state of Indiana, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk can vary based on local ordinances. For example, in the city of Bloomington, local laws allow bicycles of any size to use the sidewalks except in the downtown area, and cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians.
Similarly, in some cities, it’s illegal for cyclists to use the sidewalk instead of the roadway, while in others, such as Indianapolis, it is allowed.
It’s important for cyclists to check their local ordinances for variations and to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Indiana.
In the state of Iowa, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
State law is silent on bicyclists riding on sidewalks, but bicyclists should be sure to check local ordinances for specific rules. Bicycles are not defined as vehicles but generally have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicles.
Bicyclists on roadways must exercise due care when passing on the left of a standing vehicle or one Motor vehicle drivers are required to pass bicyclists at a safe distance. At night, a bicycle must be equipped with a front white light and a rear red tail light, both visible from at least 300 feet away. A red reflector might be used in addition to the rear light. Iowa has additional penalties that may be imposed if a crash results in the injury or death of a person.
Local community ordinances may have further restrictions on bicycle operations and registration. Some local ordinances may allow riding on sidewalks, while others may have specific restrictions. Therefore, it’s important for cyclists to check their local ordinances for variations and to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Iowa.
In Kansas, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Kansas state law does not specifically permit or prohibit bicycles on the sidewalks. Local ordinances may have variations on this rule, so it’s important to check local regulations for specific guidance.
- Bicycles are not defined as vehicles in Kansas, but bicyclists generally have the same rights and duties as vehicle drivers. They are required to obey all traffic signs and signals and exercise due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction. Motor vehicle drivers must pass bicyclists at a safe distance of not less than three feet.
- In Manhattan, Kansas, it is illegal to ride a bicycle on sidewalks.
Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Kansas.
In the state of Kentucky, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Bicycles are considered vehicles, and bicyclists are required to operate a bicycle in the same manner as a motorist operating a motor vehicle. Bicyclists on roadways must exercise due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction. Motor vehicle drivers must change lanes to pass bicyclists when there is more than one lane available. When only one lane is available, drivers must provide a minimum of 3 feet when passing a bicyclist and when safe, may cross over the double yellow centerline to do so.
- Kentucky state law does not specifically permit or prohibit bicycles on the sidewalks. Local ordinances may have variations on this rule, so it’s important to check local regulations for specific guidance.
- In Louisville, no one over the age of 11 can operate a bicycle on any sidewalk, and no bikes are allowed on the downtown sidewalks.
Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Kentucky.
In Louisiana, cyclists over the age of 12 are not legally allowed to ride on sidewalks.
Louisiana does not have a statute that specifically authorizes or prohibits sidewalk riding, but the general rule is that cyclists over the age of 12 are not allowed to ride on sidewalks. Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Louisiana.
In the state of Maine, sidewalk riding is generally allowed and legal unless specifically prohibited by a municipality or local ordinance. However, it’s important to check with local regulations for specific guidance, as there may be variations in different areas. Additionally, cyclists need to follow the rules of the road and be aware of any local or municipal prohibitions to ensure safe and legal cycling in Maine.
In Maryland, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are subject to local ordinances. The state generally prohibits driving any kind of vehicle on the sidewalk, listing bicycles as an exception only where permitted by local ordinance. Different counties and cities in Maryland may have different rules, so there is no easy general answer. Bicycles are defined as vehicles and generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. Bicyclists on sidewalks must yield the right of way to pedestrians. It’s important for cyclists to check local ordinances for specific guidance and to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Maryland.
In Massachusetts, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Bicyclists are generally allowed to ride on sidewalks outside of business districts unless local laws prohibit sidewalk riding.
- Bicyclists must yield the right of way to pedestrians when riding on sidewalks and provide them with an audible signal before passing.
- Local ordinances may have variations on this rule, so cyclists need to check local regulations for specific guidance.
Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Massachusetts.
In the state of Michigan, state law does not prohibit sidewalk riding but offers a provision to allow it to be regulated locally through ordinance and posted signs. Bicyclists are required to yield to the right-of-way of pedestrians and give an audible signal when overtaking and passing. However, it’s important to note that some cities may have ordinances banning bikes from being ridden on sidewalks, especially in busy downtown areas. Therefore, cyclists should be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Michigan.
In Minnesota, the rules regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Minnesota law does not prohibit sidewalk riding unless in a business district or where prohibited by local authorities. Bicyclists are required to yield to pedestrians and provide them with an audible signal before passing.
- Bicyclists are generally allowed to ride on sidewalks outside of business districts unless local laws prohibit sidewalk riding. However, it’s important to check with local regulations for specific guidance, as there may be variations in different areas.
- Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and in crosswalks and provide an auditory notice before passing. Additionally, they should avoid operating a motorized bicycle on the sidewalk.
Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Minnesota.
In Mississippi, the state law does not explicitly address whether riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is allowed. However, based on the general principles of sidewalk cycling in other states, it is advisable to yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal before passing. Additionally, it’s important to be aware that local ordinances or regulations may have specific provisions regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. Therefore, cyclists in Mississippi should check local regulations for any specific guidance to ensure safe and legal cycling.
In Missouri, state law prohibits cyclists from riding on the sidewalk in a business district. However, outside of business districts, cyclists are generally allowed to ride on sidewalks, provided they yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Missouri.
In Montana, cyclists are legally permitted to ride on sidewalks as long as they yield to pedestrians. They also have the same rights and legal responsibilities as pedestrians on the same footpath. However, it’s important to note that local ordinances or regulations may have specific provisions regarding riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. Therefore, cyclists should check local regulations for any specific guidance to ensure safe and legal cycling in Montana.
In Nebraska, cyclists are allowed to ride on sidewalks, and they are required to yield to pedestrians. The state does not have a statute specifically prohibiting riding bicycles on the sidewalk. However, some cities may have specific areas where riding on the sidewalk is prohibited, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Nebraska.
In Nevada, state law does not prohibit riding bicycles on sidewalks. Therefore, it is generally permitted unless there is a local ordinance prohibiting it. For example, in Las Vegas, it is illegal to ride on sidewalks on Fremont Street between Main Street and Seventh Street. Cyclists are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and provide them with an audible signal before passing. It’s important for cyclists to check local laws before riding on the sidewalk and to respect the rights of pedestrians to use the sidewalk. Additionally, cyclists should be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Nevada.
In New Jersey, state law does not specifically prohibit riding a bicycle on the sidewalk. However, some municipalities have passed ordinances prohibiting or restricting bicycle traffic on certain sidewalks. These restrictions may include complete bans in certain areas, hourly and seasonal restrictions along boardwalks in many shore towns, and requirements for cyclists to travel at pedestrian speeds in specific locations. Therefore, cyclists need to be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in New Jersey.
In New Mexico, state law does not specifically address whether riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is allowed. However, some local ordinances may have provisions regarding sidewalk cycling. It’s important for cyclists to check local regulations for any specific guidance to ensure safe and legal cycling in New Mexico.
In New York, the rules about riding a bike on the sidewalk are as follows:
- In New York City, riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is generally prohibited, except for children age 12 or younger and those with a bicycle wheel diameter of less than 26 inches
- Outside of New York City, while state law does not explicitly prohibit riding a bicycle on the sidewalk, some municipalities have passed ordinances prohibiting bicycle traffic on certain sidewalks. This prohibition is usually posted. Therefore, it’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in New York
It’s important for cyclists to check local regulations for any specific guidance to ensure safe and legal cycling in New York.
In North Carolina, the state law does not specifically address bicycling on sidewalks. Instead, this issue is usually addressed through local ordinances. While bicycles are permitted on sidewalks in many municipalities, there are exceptions, such as in center city areas. It’s important for cyclists to check local ordinances for variations on this rule to ensure safe and legal cycling in North Carolina.
In North Dakota, the state law prohibits riding bicycles on sidewalks, except where local ordinances or signs permit it. Cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal when approaching and passing them. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in North Dakota.
In the US state of Ohio, there is no legal ban on sidewalk cycling at the state level. However, many of the state’s cities have local ordinances that either prohibit all sidewalk cycling or permit it outside of business districts. For example, in some of Ohio’s largest cities, such as Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus, sidewalk cycling is permitted outside of business districts. The Ohio Bicycle Federation discourages sidewalk riding for adults, citing accident studies that show even low-speed sidewalk riding has about double the accident rate. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Ohio.
In Oklahoma, cyclists are not allowed to ride on sidewalks within business districts. However, outside of business districts, there are no state statutes governing sidewalk cycling, but many large cities have local restrictions. For example, Oklahoma City allows cyclists to use sidewalks when outside of business districts. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Oklahoma.
In Oregon, the rules about riding a bike on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Sidewalk riding is generally permitted, but cyclists must yield the right of way to pedestrians and provide an audible warning before overtaking and passing them.
- Some cities in Oregon have specific ordinances prohibiting or restricting sidewalk cycling, especially in business districts and urban core areas. For example, Beaverton and West Linn have ordinances prohibiting sidewalk riding in certain areas.
- Cyclists are encouraged to ride on the road and follow the same rules as motor vehicles. If riding on the sidewalk, cyclists should adjust their riding habits for the safety of all sidewalk users, especially at driveways and street crossings
Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Oregon.
In Pennsylvania, the rules regarding riding a bike on the sidewalk are as follows:
- A person may only ride on the sidewalk if no bike lane is available and/or they are not in a business district. When riding on the sidewalk, cyclists must always yield to pedestrians.
- A person shall not ride a bicycle upon a sidewalk in a business district unless permitted by official traffic-control devices, or when a usable bike-only lane is available adjacent to the sidewalk.
- Cyclists are considered vehicles under Pennsylvania law and have to follow the same right-of-way laws as drivers, including yielding to pedestrians.
- Pennsylvania allows bicycles to operate on sidewalks subject to the rule that a person riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk or bike path used by pedestrians shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Pennsylvania.
In Rhode Island, bicycles and other human-powered vehicles may be operated on sidewalks and along roadway crosswalks, unless prohibited by official traffic-control devices (signs). When riding on a sidewalk, a person has all the rights and all the duties applicable to a pedestrian. However, it’s important to note that local ordinances or signs may restrict or prohibit sidewalk cycling in certain areas. Therefore, cyclists should check local regulations for any specific guidance to ensure safe and legal cycling in Rhode Island.
In South Carolina, sidewalk riding is generally permitted, except where prohibited by local ordinance. When on sidewalks, bicyclists must yield the right of way to pedestrians. Cyclists need to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in South Carolina.
In South Dakota, the state law permits sidewalk cycling, with the following requirements:
- Cyclists must yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and provide them with an auditory notice before passing.
- It’s important to avoid operating a motorized bicycle on the sidewalk
These regulations are aimed at ensuring the safety of both cyclists and pedestrians.
In the US state of Tennessee, the rules about riding a bike on the sidewalk are as follows:
- No state law prohibits sidewalk riding, but some local ordinances may restrict or prohibit it.
- Where sidewalk riding is allowed, bicyclists must yield to pedestrians.
- Bicycles in Tennessee have the legal status of a vehicle. This means that bicyclists have full rights and responsibilities on the roadway and are subject to Tennessee traffic laws.
It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Tennessee.
In the US state of Texas, state law does not prohibit bicycles on sidewalks, so it’s up to municipalities to pass a law if they want to. Therefore, the rules about riding a bike on the sidewalk may vary by city or town. It’s important for cyclists to check local ordinances for any specific guidance to ensure safe and legal cycling in Texas.
In the US state of Utah, the rules about riding a bike on the sidewalk are as follows:
- Cyclists are allowed to ride on sidewalks outside of downtown districts. However, in Salt Lake City, sidewalk cycling is prohibited in a specific area.
- Bicyclists under 18 have an absolute right to use a sidewalk, path, trail, or crosswalk; bicyclists 18 and over may be prohibited by traffic device or ordinance.
- Cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal when overtaking them. They should also use care and safe speeds to avoid collisions.
It’s important for cyclists to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Utah.
In the US state of Vermont, it is illegal to operate a motor-assisted bicycle on a sidewalk. State law prohibits any vehicles from driving on the sidewalk, and this law applies to bicycles. The Vermont Statutes Online specifies that a person shall not operate a motor-assisted bicycle on a sidewalk in Vermont.
Therefore, cyclists should refrain from riding motor-assisted bicycles on the sidewalk to comply with state law.
In the US state of Virginia, cyclists are generally allowed to ride their bikes on sidewalks, unless prohibited by local ordinances. State law does not explicitly prohibit sidewalk cycling, but local ordinances or traffic control devices may restrict or prohibit it in certain areas. Therefore, cyclists should be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Virginia.
In the US state of Washington, cyclists are generally allowed to ride on sidewalks, unless prohibited by local ordinances. State law requires that cyclists yield to pedestrians when riding on a sidewalk or crosswalk. However, it’s important to note that local regulations may restrict or prohibit sidewalk cycling in certain areas. Therefore, cyclists should be aware of and comply with local ordinances to ensure safe and legal cycling in Washington.
In West Virginia, state law prohibits bicyclists from riding on sidewalks. The law specifies that “no person shall ride or drive any vehicle on the sidewalks of any county, city or town.” Therefore, cyclists in West Virginia are not allowed to ride their bikes on sidewalks, as these are designated travel areas for pedestrians.
In the US state of Wisconsin, state law prohibits operating a bicycle on a sidewalk unless “local authorities” permit it. However, most municipalities in Wisconsin allow young children or riders with small bicycles on sidewalks. Certain cities, such as Madison, allow people to ride bicycles on the sidewalk under certain circumstances. For example, in Madison, Ordinance 12.76 prohibits riding a bicycle on the sidewalk where a building abuts the sidewalk. Therefore, cyclists should be aware of and comply with local ordinances to ensure safe and legal cycling in Wisconsin.
In the US state of Wyoming, bicycles and other human-powered vehicles are permitted on sidewalks. Cyclists are required to yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and provide them with an auditory notice before passing. However, it’s important to note that the laws regarding sidewalk riding can be very complicated and may vary from town to town, and sometimes from block to block. Therefore, cyclists should be aware of and comply with local regulations to ensure safe and legal cycling in Wyoming.
Can you overtake when you ride on the sidewalk?
The general rules in the US state that bikes must yield to pedestrians when using the sidewalk. In some States where the is no bicycle lane and cyclists may ride on the sidewalk, you can overtake but must make sure you do so safely and without obstructing pedestrians.
Can you ride your bicycle over crosswalks?
Every state has its own traffic laws, and some municipalities have additional ordinances. Some states explicitly allow cyclists to ride in crosswalks, while others are silent on the issue. In some cases, it may be legal to ride in crosswalks as long as you yield to pedestrians, while in others it may be prohibited altogether.
FAQs
Should I wear a helmet when in a bike lane?
In our opinion, you should always wear in helmet when riding in a bike lane.
Many people argue that there is no need to wear a helmet when riding in a bike lane, however, it is possible to still get in a bicycle accident at high speed when riding in a bicycle lane. A helmet will protect you when falling off your bike and could be the difference between being able to walk away from a crash and being seriously injured.
Do cyclists have the right of way on multi-use paths?
There is no clear guidance on who has the right of way on multi-use paths. Depending on the path being used, signage should guide you as to how to behave when using the path.
Even in the absence of specific laws, common courtesy and established practices apply on multi-use paths.
Generally:
Pedestrians: Generally have priority over cyclists, especially children, older adults, or those with disabilities. Cyclists should slow down, give way, and announce their presence when approaching pedestrians.
Cyclists: Should travel at a safe and reasonable speed, typically slower than on roads. They should also give way to slower users, be predictable in their movements, and use caution at intersections and crossings.
Other Users: Everyone using the path, including rollerbladers, dog walkers, and skateboarders, has a responsibility to be aware of their surroundings and yield to users with less control or maneuverability.
