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Bike Rules Of The Road

Posted by: at 11:43 AM on March 15th, 2016

With warm weather approaching, it's a good time to review your rights as a cyclist to help keep yourself and other safe on the roads this season.

When a motor vehicle is attempting to make a left turn, the driver of the vehicle MUST yield to any bicyclist who is approaching from the opposite direction. 

A motor vehicle cannot turn right in front of a bicycle unless the vehicle has overtaken and is safely clear of the bicycle. 

When a motor vehicle attempts to overtake a bicycle proceeding in the same direction, it must leave a safe distance between the vehicle and bicycle. 

These reminders may seem very basic, but they are three of the most common errors leading to bike accidents involving motor vehicles.   

Of course, don't forget that you as a cyclist have a duty to follow the rules of the road.  Bicyclists have the same rights and duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle and  must abide by the "rules of the road."

Simply put, when cycling on a street, if a traffic sign indicates that no left turn can be made, this directive applies to both motor vehicles AND the bicyclists. 

As a general rule, when cycling, you should always be riding in the same direction of traffic; otherwise you are violating the law and placing your safety in jeopardy.

Finally, always remember that regardless of how safe a bicyclist you are, you can never account for what the driver behind the wheel sees or thinks. 

Even if you follow the rules of the road, motor vehicle drivers aren't looking for bikers, whether they're on the sidewalk, the bike lane or the road.

Even the safest cyclist can be injured through no fault of their own, no matter how much they account for their own safety. 

If you or a loved one is injured in an accident, contact the attorneys at LDM&M.   Acting promptly to preserve your rights is essential after any accident. 

For over 40 years, the attorneys at LDM&M have been helping individuals across Wisconsin receive the legal satisfaction that they deserve.  Contact our offices for a free, personal consolation.