Traffic Laws for Bicyclists in Columbus

State law classifies bicycles as vehicles just like commuter cars, commercial trucks, and everything else with a motor and four or more wheels. Among many other consequences, this means that all the standard rules of the road that apply to motor vehicle drivers also apply to bicyclists, and any bicyclists who fail to follow those rules may find themselves in traffic court, facing fines and other penalties for moving violations.

Importantly, there are also a few unique traffic laws for bicyclists in Columbus that are different from those applicable to motor vehicle drivers. Some of these restrict the rights of cyclists by comparison, and some expand them. Here is a brief overview of the most significant rules in state law regarding the operation of bicycles on public roadways, all of which bike crash attorney David Bence or another member of the Bence Law Firm, LLC, team can explain in more detail.

Where Are Bicyclists Allowed To Ride?

State traffic laws prohibit bicyclists in Columbus from riding on state or interstate highways under any circumstances. The rules also prohibit virtually all cyclists—with limited exceptions in certain jurisdictions for riders under the age of 12—from riding on pedestrian sidewalks. Bicyclists should use marked bike lanes or stay on separated bike paths whenever possible.

If no dedicated bike lane or bike path is available, cyclists on public roadways should ride as close to the right side of the roadway as is safely possible, except when they are turning left or if they need to pass a stopped vehicle, which they should do with due care. Bicyclists do still have the right to make full use of a traffic lane when riding lawfully on public roads, and motor vehicle drivers should stay at least three feet away from cyclists when passing and overtaking them, which they should only attempt when there is room to do so safely.

Obeying Traffic Laws for Motor Vehicles as a Bicyclist

Columbus cyclists must follow all the same traffic signs, signals, and general rules for vehicle operation as motor vehicle drivers. That means they must come to a complete stop at stop signs before safely proceeding, obey traffic lights, and yield the right-of-way at yield signs when appropriate.

One notable exception to standard traffic laws is that bicyclists are allowed to ride two abreast within a single lane of traffic on a public roadway. However, riding three or more abreast is prohibited except in lanes or on paths designed exclusively for cyclists.

Contact a Columbus Attorney About Traffic Laws for Cyclists

Of course, even if you are a perfectly law-abiding and responsible bicycle rider, there is no way to eliminate the risk that another person’s misconduct could cause you harm. Moreover, civil courts do not always side with bicyclists who attempt to bring legal action against people who irresponsibly injure them, especially when those bicyclists try to navigate civil law entirely on their own.

If you were hurt in a bicycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence despite following all relevant traffic laws for bicyclists in Columbus, David Bence could help you enforce your right to civil recovery from the person—or people—truly to blame for your injuries. Call today for a consultation.