Cycling Streets, Respecting Rules of the Road
While cycling in any community it’s important to know the law also referred to as the “Rules of the Road“. These Rules are dictated by the Department of Motor Vehicles in every state. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to see someone riding their bike down the wrong side of the street. There are also those who feel because they can they should weave in and around stopped traffic as they cross busy streets or cycle wildly through intersections racing from street to sidewalk and back again. No one knows what to expect from this rider because they are ignoring the rules. Do you know which side is the wrong side of the road? To ride against traffic or towards oncoming cars is the wrong side. A minority of cyclists do this because they are afraid of being hit from behind however, it’s against the law and you should expect to be ticketed. Cyclists and motorists alike should keep in mind what “sharing the road” means. It’s not difficult, it’s simply a matter of respecting each others right to use the road and abiding by the same vehicle code period!Is it lawful to ride on the sidewalk because you feel safer there? The answer varies from city to city so before you head out to ride the sidewalks in your neighborhood or elsewhere check with the city. Should you wear a helmet? Can you continue cycling down the street when you see a stop sign or street light because you don’t see any cars around? Just as a driver in a car must know the Rules of the Road so must every person who rides a bike and expects to ride on city streets. Expect to be ticketed if you choose to ignore or disobey the law. Be courteous and remember the Golden Rule – . Also be aware that as a cyclist sharing the road your ticket will cost the same as if you were driving a car.
