I can remember being taught as a child to ride my bicycle against traffic. By doing this, I was told I could see approaching cars in the lane nearest me. This was thought to be the safest practice for bicycle riders.
Some time later, the rules changed. Bicyclists now are required by Arizona law to ride with traffic. In fact, the law generally imposes the same duties on bicycle riders as those imposed on drivers of cars.
Bicyclists who are traveling at a speed less than the speed of normal traffic must ride as close as practical to the right curb or roadway edge. The only exceptions to this rule are for passing, avoiding other objects or hazards, preparing to make a left turn, and in situations where a lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side.
Bicyclists may not ride two abreast unless they are on bicycle paths or in designated bicycle lanes.
The law also prohibits use of a bicycle to carry more passengers than the number for which it was designed and equipped. Among other things, this means no passengers may ride on handlebars.
A bicyclist may not cling to another vehicle while riding, and he or she may not carry anything that prevents the rider from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars.
Any bicycle that is ridden at night must be equipped with an approved headlight and red taillight or reflector.
A special provision of our law regarding bicycles makes it illegal for a parent or guardian knowingly to permit a child to violate any of the bicycle safety laws.
Children are not exempt from the law either. Arizona courts have ruled that bicycle traffic laws apply to everyone, regardless of age. If you or your child is injured in an accident while violating bicycle traffic laws, you may not be compensated fully for your injuries.
If you ride a bicycle, you should know and observe the rules. If you have children, teach them to respect the rules. The rules are grounded in safety considerations. Do not be responsible for personal injury to yourself or others.
Laws regarding bicycle safety never will be enforced as vigorously as they should, but given the inherent danger of sharing the road with automobiles, I am surprised any enforcement is necessary. |
