Cyclists And The Traffic Laws

I don't know about you, but I get a little frustrated when I hear some of my road

bike riding buddies complain about not getting respect from motorists and then 5 minutes later I see them running lights, disobeying traffic signs and generally ignoring the law. You have probably seen the bumper sticker "Same Roads, Same Rights". I could not agree more with the sentiment. However, the unstated implication here is that we cyclists also have a legal obligation to obey the traffic laws. So, maybe the slogan should be "Same Roads, Same Rights, Same Rules". Here are a few things to think about on your next ride:

1. Obey the law!: Cyclists, just like motorists, must obey all traffic control devices. It is just not ok to run red lights. I know that momentum is a cyclists best friend, but that does not give us the right to run red lights. Also, remember that it takes longer to travel through an intersection on a bike so plan to stop for yellow lights. Additionally, be extra aware of cars that run red lights. You will not win the confrontation, so wait for the green and scan to make sure it's clear.

2. Detection at Intersections: Bicycles must activate a vehicle detector just like a motor vehicle. Detectors are embedded in the roadway so look for squares cut into the roadway. Also, contrary to popular belief the detectors work on magnetic forces to sense vehicles, not weight. It may the case that you just don't have enough "magnetic mass" to trip the sensor, so you may need to get off the bike and push the pedestrian walk button.

3. Unresponsive signals - If however you just can't trip the light and there is no pedestrian button, in most states, after three minutes, you can treat a red light as a stop sign (be sure you research your particular state). You should pass through a red light only as a last resort and do so with extreme caution. And of course, you need to yield to other vehicles while crossing the roadway.

4. Speed limits - believe it or not cyclists can actually exceed the speed limit. And just like other traffic laws, you can be ticketed for speeding. Granted this one is a bit of a stretch, however obeying the law is an "all or nothing" proposition. It's best if you simply get into the habit of obeying all the laws all the time.

Make these activities habit and you will not only be a safer cyclist you may also gain some respect from motorists.

by: Alan D Davis

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