In most bicycle accidents, motorists complain that the cyclist didn’t have the right of way. Whether they were right or blowing things out of proportion, it's important for cyclists to understand their rights and responsibilities when on the road. In general, the answer to who has the right of way is not straightforward, as it varies depending on factors like specific situations and location. Regardless, cyclists have the same duty of care as motorists when on the road to avoid accidents that could lead to serious injury. So, below, we will discuss what the law says about who has the right of way on different roads.
At Crosswalks
At a crosswalk, cyclists and pedestrians have the same rights and responsibilities to each other. However, cyclists must yield to pedestrians. If the crosswalk is unsignalled, cyclists must stop and give the right of way to pedestrians. When it is signaled, drivers must give the right of way. When a cyclist adheres to the general traffic laws and is involved in an accident, the other party that caused the accident will be liable for damages. However, we recommend you speak to an Orting bicycle injury attorney first to be sure you have a case.
Shared Lanes
Bicycles are considered vehicles by legal definition; as such, they are required by law to obey the general traffic law, especially on shared lanes like streets that are used by all vehicles. Hence, when riding on a main road, cyclists, even as tourists, are expected to obey traffic laws such as stopping at a red light, yielding to pedestrians, and following all posted signs. Because it is a shared road, cyclists have the following rights:
- Must ride in traffic
- Ride as close to the side curb or edge of the road as possible
- Move away from the side of the road when overtaking or preparing for a turn
- Cyclists can pass other vehicles on the left or right side
- Ride on an adjacent lane used by vehicles proceeding in the same direction to overtake a lane partially occupied by vehicles
Bike Lanes
In the U.S., there are areas on the road designated as bike lanes. These lanes are separated from the main road with a line and a bike symbol or the words "bike lane" and are strictly for use by people riding bicycles. As such, cyclists have the right of way in a bike lane. Driving on a bike lane is illegal in most jurisdictions and punishable with a fine. As such, if a cyclist gets hit by a motor vehicle on a bike lane, the driver of that vehicle will be held liable for the accident.
On The Sidewalk
Also, most roads have sidewalks in addition to bike lanes. This segment of the road is designated for pedestrians. However, in some cases, it is fine to cycle on the sidewalk, especially if it is not a business district and not restricted. Adults are typically not allowed to cycle on the sidewalk. However, minors under the age of 12 are permitted to cycle on the sidewalk. To be more precise, the traffic law prohibits cycling a bicycle with wheels larger than 26 inches in diameter on the sidewalk.
