Bicyclists are often seen as a nuisance on the roads, but the truth is that they have just as much right to be there as any other vehicle. In fact, in many states, bicyclists are allowed to use the full lane when no bike lane exists. This means that they can ride in the center of the lane, just like any other vehicle. In this blog post, we will explore the laws surrounding this issue in various states.
First, let's look at California. According to the California Vehicle Code, "any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway." However, there are exceptions to this rule, and one of them is "when reasonably necessary to avoid conditions (including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or substandard width lanes) that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge."
In other words, if there is no bike lane, and it is not safe for a bicyclist to ride on the right-hand side of the road, they are allowed to use the full lane. This is also the case in many other states. For example, in Oregon, the law states that "a person is not required to ride in a bicycle lane or path if the person is able to safely travel in the lane of traffic adjacent to the bicycle lane or path."
Similarly, in Colorado, the law states that "a bicyclist may use a lane other than the right-hand lane if: the right-hand lane is not wide enough to safely accommodate the bicycle and a motor vehicle; or the bicyclist is traveling at the same speed as traffic." In Georgia, the law allows bicyclists to use the full lane "when necessary to avoid a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, or surface hazard or if the lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side."
These laws make it clear that bicyclists have the right to use the full lane when no bike lane exists, and it is not safe to ride on the right-hand side of the road. This is important for both the safety of bicyclists and the education of drivers. Drivers need to be aware that bicyclists are allowed to use the full lane, and they need to respect that right. Bicyclists need to be aware of the laws in their state and assert their rights when necessary.
In conclusion, if you are a bicyclist, know your rights and be prepared to use the full lane when necessary. And if you are a driver, be aware of the laws in your state and respect the rights of bicyclists. By working together and sharing the road, we can create a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.