Bicycle Law Blog

Cyclists in large cities become aware of this one sooner or later. “Dooring” is what happens when a motorist or passenger opens a car door into the path of a bicyclist. A dooring can be relatively minor—resulting in nothing more than scrapes, bruises and rattled nerves—or it can result in death. While a cyclist can…

Speed Bumps in the Path of the Bicycle Juggernaut By SCOTT JAMES Dr. Frank Gilson is recuperating from a bad case of road rash — not from ill-fitting cycling shorts, but from a grueling encounter with San Francisco’s bike plan. Enlarge This Image Scott James/The Bay Citizen A new bike lane on 17th Street in…

There are two proper methods for making a left turn on a bicycle: 1. Using Traffic Lanes As you approach the intersection, look over your left shoulder for traffic. If clear, signal your turn and move over to the left side of the lane, or into the left or center turn lane. Position yourself so…

This is another question I am often asked. If there is no shoulder or bicycle lane and the traffic lane is narrow, ride closer to the center of the lane. This will prevent motorists from passing you when there is not enough room. You should also use the traffic lane when you are traveling at…

This is by far the question I am most frequently asked when giving presentations to cyclists. Ride on the right, but not so far that you might hit the curb. You could lose your balance and fall into traffic. Do not ride too far to the right: – When avoiding parked vehicles or road hazards….

Ride With Traffic Ride in the same direction as the traffic. This will make you more visible to drivers entering roads or changing lanes because they will know where to look for possible conflicts. On a one-way street, you may ride on the left as long as you are riding with traffic.

Be Visible and Alert Even if you obey all traffic laws, there is always a risk of being hit by a motorist who is not obeying the laws, or who simply does not see you. Ride carefully—Vehicles waiting at stop signs, in driveways, or parking spaces may suddenly pull out in front of you. Watch…