Safety

Bike Laws & Safety

Bicycles on the roadway are, by law, vehicles with the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicles. However, there are special rules cyclists must follow - and drivers must accommodate:

  • Extra Room - Bicyclists may move away from the right side of the road when passing another vehicle going in the same direction, or when avoiding a hazard such as a pothole, debris, animals, or other vehicles.
  • Left Lane - Bicyclists may use the left lane or move to the left side of a single lane when preparing to make a left turn - just like a car.
  • Room to Ride - Bicyclists are not required to ride on the shoulder or to surrender the lane to vehicles. When riding with traffic, they are expected to ride as far to the right as practical when the lane can be shared safely with other vehicles.
  • Two Abreast - Bicyclists may ride two-abreast, even in traffic.

Share the Road

Riding a bicycle on the road means sharing the road with cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Please ride smart so you can be safe and enjoy the ride. Here are a few tips to remember as you share the road:

  • Always look back, signal, and check for traffic before turning or entering the roadway
  • Be aware of what's going on around you
  • Obey all traffic laws
  • Ride with traffic, in the right side of the lane
  • Signal all turns
  • Stop at stop signs and traffic lights

Do's & Don'ts for Bicyclists

  • Do allow extra distance for stopping in wet weather.
  • Do allow four feet between you and parked cars so you don't get surprised by an opening door.
  • Do be prepared: Carry water and tools.
  • Do let motorists pass when it's safe, but hold your lane so you have room to ride.
  • Do let pedestrians go first.
  • Do use a light and wear reflective clothing if you must ride when it's dark. Reflective patches and reflective wheel strips will also help.
  • Do wear bright colors to help drivers see you.
  • Do wear a helmet. It could save your life!
  • Don't hog the road: Two cyclists, side-by-side, is the limit. If the lane can be safely shared with a car, ride single file.
  • Don't surprise other drivers. Ride straight, with no sudden changes in direction.

This information is courtesy of Bicycle Indiana and Central Indiana Bicycling Association