Bicycles are popular modes of transportation throughout Pennsylvania, particularly in suburban and urban areas. It is crucial for bicyclists and other drivers on the roadway to understand right-of-way laws. Bicyclists in Pennsylvania do have significant rights on the roadway, and knowing these rights is crucial to maintaining safety.
What Rights do Bicyclists Have?
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, bicyclists are generally extended the same rights as motor vehicles under the Motor Vehicle Code. Along with the same rights come the same responsibilities. Bicyclists are considered a part of the normal traffic pattern, and they are required to ride in the same direction as traffic on the roadways. Some of the most important laws that apply to bicyclists include the following:
- Riding on the right. Motorcyclists can ride on the shoulder of the road or in the right-most travel lane, regardless of how many lanes there are. Bicyclists are only allowed to ride on the left-most travel lane if there is a one-way street or if they are anticipating making a left-hand turn.
- Using arm signals. Bicyclists do not have turn signals, so the cyclist is required to use arm signals when they want to turn or stop. This will help ensure that motorists maintain the right of way for bicyclists.
- Motorists passing. Drivers are allowed to pass motorcyclists in a no-passing zone, but they are required to reduce their speed, use extreme caution, and give the bicyclist 4 feet of clearance when they pass. It is illegal for any motorist to open their door in traffic, as this could lead to a dooring accident for a bicyclist.
- Caution at intersections. When a cyclist wants to go straight through an intersection and has the right of way to do so, a driver cannot turn right into the path of the cyclist. When a bicyclist needs to turn left at an intersection, they should wait in the middle of the intersection so that all drivers can see them. Bicyclists can use their best judgment and cautiously turn on red.
- Avoiding sidewalks. Bicyclists should avoid sidewalks if they are able to do so, as these are specifically there for pedestrians. Additionally, if riding on a sidewalk, bicyclists should give an audible warning to pedestrians as they approach and pass them.
- Staying off of freeways. Bicycles are not permitted on the freeways of Pennsylvania.
Drivers Must Treat Bicyclists as Vehicles
Bicycle accidents are not uncommon in and around Philadelphia. Unfortunately, many of these accidents are caused by the careless or negligent actions of other drivers. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include failing to yield the right of way to the cyclist. When vehicle drivers accept that bicycles should be afforded the same rights as other vehicles on the roadway, this helps reframe the mindset. Bicycles should not be seen as nuisances, but rather “fellow vehicles” to respect on the roadway.
If you or somebody you love has been injured in a Philadelphia bicycle accident caused by the actions of another driver, you need to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. A skilled Philadelphia bike accident lawyer can fully examine every aspect of your claim and help you recover any compensation you may be entitled to.