Share the Road
Same Road, Same Rules, Same Rights
The safety of bicycle riders is a responsibility shared by both motorists and cyclists. Bicyclists are not out of place on the roadway – they are part of the traffic. Every bicycle rider has the same rights and responsibilities as a motor vehicle driver. All persons who use public roads must understand state traffic laws and use caution and common sense. Bicyclists' and motorists' actions are more predictable and safer when everyone follows traffic laws.
Here are some important safety tips for sharing the road
As a motorist:
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Yield to bicycles in a bicycle lane.
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Do not drive in a bicycle lane except when making a turn.
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Do not park in a bicycle lane.
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If parked at a curb, look before opening a car door. You may be in the path of, and could hit, a bicyclist, pedestrian or other car.
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Look carefully for bicycles: scan intersections before entering or turning and yield to bicycles as you would for any vehicle.
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Pass a bicycle the same way you would a car, or any other vehicle, allowing at least three feet of space.
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Motorists must stop for bicyclists crossing in a crosswalk. There is a crosswalk at the intersection of any two streets, whether painted or not. Bicyclists must dismount if using a crosswalk to cross the street.
As a bicyclist:
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Obey all traffic laws when riding in the street.
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In some downtown business districts, bicycling on sidewalks is prohibited; walk with your bike.
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Bicyclists have the choice to ride on the roadway, on the shoulder of a road, in a bike lane, or on a sidewalk (except where prohibited).
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Bicyclists riding on a sidewalk or crossing in a crosswalk are granted all the rights and responsibilities of a pedestrian.
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Yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and in crosswalks. Use an audible signal to warn pedestrians before passing, such as “on your left.”
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Be aware that not all roads in this map have bicycle facilities. Expect to share the road with motorists.
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