On California’s roadways, drivers and cyclists must coexist. Because of this, California has established a set of laws designed to protect cyclists and improve road sharing between these two types of road users. However, many motorists are not aware of the state’s bicycle right-of-way laws, which can result in dangerous situations for all road users.
Right-Of-Way Laws for Cyclists in California
Code section 21200 awards cyclists the same responsibilities and rights as drivers. This means that cyclists have the right of way, just like other drivers. However, some motorists don’t respect or fail to recognize cyclist rights, which can result in a serious accident.
Drivers often violate a cyclist’s right of way at intersections. When a cyclist rides through an intersection and a motorist is turning right, the driver is required to yield to the cyclist if the cyclist has reached the intersection first. Additionally, if a driver makes a left turn, they must yield to an oncoming cyclist who is proceeding straight. When a driver fails to yield, it can result in a serious accident.
Vehicle Code Section 21209
Under this code, drivers are prohibited from driving in a bike lane except to park in permitted areas, to leave or enter the roadway, or if they are preparing for a turn that is within two hundred feet of an intersection. When making a turn, if they have to cross a bike lane, a motorist is required to yield to the cyclist in the bike lane. Unfortunately, drivers often violate this law, using bike lanes as a shortcut to bypass traffic. In some cases, they may also fail to check for a cyclist before they cross a bike lane when turning.
Vehicle Code Section 22517
Dooring refers to when a driver opens their vehicle door into the path of an oncoming rider. Under vehicle code section 22517, no driver shall open the door of their vehicle on the side that is available to moving traffic unless it can be done in a reasonably safe manner and without interfering with moving traffic.
This law applies to motorists and their passengers, requiring them to check for oncoming cyclists before they open the doors of the vehicle. Unfortunately, dooring is still very common, despite this law. Many drivers forget to check for cyclists or they underestimate the cyclist’s speed.
Bicyclists Riding in Traffic
When a cyclist rides in traffic lanes, they have the right of way, just like any other driver. Motorists have to yield to cyclists when they’re in the same lane, respecting their right to share the road. Cyclists are required to ride as close to the right side of the road as possible except when they’re trying to avoid a hazard, turn left, or when passing. They are also required to signal their movements when turning or preparing to change lanes.
Cyclists Riding On Sidewalks and in Crosswalks
California allows cyclists to ride legally in crosswalks. Some cities will also permit cyclists to ride on the sidewalks, however, other cities have banned cyclists from sidewalk use. Because of this, it’s important to look up your city’s cycling laws to ensure you remain in compliance.
Should I Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer if I’m Struck By a Vehicle?
If you were involved in a bike accident due to a driver who violated the right of way laws or failed to check for you in the bike lane as they were turning, you may be entitled to compensation. At the Ibrahim Law Firm, our bicycle accident lawyer understand the complexities of cycling laws in the state and know what it takes to build a strong case that will prove that the driver’s negligence is what caused your accident and your subsequent injuries. To protect your rights and your claim, contact an experienced bicycle accident lawyer on our legal team as soon as possible. They will handle every aspect of your claim, including settlement negotiations and fighting for your right to fair compensation.
Contact Us Today
If you were injured while riding your bike due to a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. At the Ibrahim Law Firm, our bicycle accident lawyers understand the many challenges injured cyclists are faced with after an accident and can help you fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Contact the Ibrahim Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer on our legal team to learn more about how we can help.
