California Bicycle Accident Injury Lawyers
Laws Relating to Bicycles
Duties
Alcohol/Drugs
Equipment
Riding on roadway
Holding on to moving vehicles
Passengers
Carrying packages
Local laws
Bike lanes
Helmets
Duties
§ 21200 Duties
Bicyclists must follow the same laws as drivers, this includes the prohibition against driving under the influence. However, if a statue is clearly unique to vehicle drivers, such as drivers license requirements, then it does not apply to bicyclists.
Alcohol/drugs
§ 21200.5 Riding while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
It is unlawful to ride a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. If arrested, the officer may request a blood, breath or urine test. The maximum fine for a violation is $250.00.
Equipment
§ 21201. Bicycle size and equipment requirements
All bicycles must be equipped with a properly working brake. The bicycle must fit the rider, with the rider easily able to touch the ground and support the bike when stopped. Handlebars must not be raised to where the rider lifts his or her hands above shoulder level. If the bicycle is ridden at night, a white light must be mounted in front and a red reflector on the rear. The white lamp must be visible from 300 feet, and the red reflector visible from 500 feet.
§ 21201.5. Reflectorized equipment
New bikes must be sold with a red reflector on the rear, and a yellow or white reflectors on the peddles and sides of the bicycle.
Riding on the Roadway
§ 21202. Riding a bicycle on the roadway
Bicyclists on the roadway are to ride as close as possible to the ride hand edge or curb, except:
- When overtaking or passing another bicycle or vehicle.
- When preparing to turn left at an intersection, road, or driveway.
- When it is necessary to avoid a hazardous condition, such as objects blocking the way.
- When making an authorized right turn.
In cases of one-way streets with two or more lanes, then bicyclists may ride on the left side edge.
Holding on to Moving Vehicles
§ 21203. Holding on to moving vehicles
It is unlawful to hold onto moving vehicles while riding a bicycle, roller skates, skateboard or motorcycle.
Passengers
§ 21204. Bicycle Passengers
Only permanent or regular seating is allowed on a bicycle. Passengers that are 4 years or younger, or weighs 40 pounds or less, the seat must have seatbelt / protective restraints.
Carrying packages
§ 21205. Carrying packages or other articles
While carrying any objects, the bicyclist must have at least one hand on the handlebars.
Local Laws
§ 21206. Local bicycle laws
Local authorities, cities or counties, can pass their own bicycle laws.
Bicycle lanes
§ 21207. Bicycle lanes
Local authorities can create bicycle lanes if they chose to, but not on state highways.
§ 21207.5. Where motorized bicycles cannot be ridden
Motorized bicycles are not to be ridden on any bicycle lane, path, or trail, unless the local law allows.
§ 21208. Permitted movements from bicycle lanes
Where there is an established bicycle lane, bicyclists may not move out of the lane , except:
- When passing or overtaking safely.
- When making a left turn at an intersection, road, or driveway.
- When it is reasonably necessary to avoid a hazard in the lane.
When a move out of the lane is allowed, it must be done in a safe manner and only after giving the appropriate signal.
Full text of §21208§ 21209. Motor vehicles in bicycle lanes
Motor vehicles are not to be driven in bicycle lanes, except;
- To park in a permitted area.
- When entering or leaving the roadway.
- When preparing for a turn, but no more than 200 feet from the intersection,
If local law allows motorized bicycles in the bicycle lane, the motorized bicycle must go no faster than a reasonable speed, and must never endanger bicyclists.
Full Text of § 21209§ 21210. Bicycle parking
Bicycles are never to be left on laying on its side on sidewalks, and must never be parked in a manner that blocks pedestrians.
Full Text for § 21210§ 21211. Loitering or placing objects on bikeway, path, or trail
Standing, sitting, loitering, or placing objects on bikeways is not unlawful. This does not apply to temporary:
- delivery stops,
- garbage trucks, and
- tow trucks.
Helmets
§ 21212. Helmet requirements
Anyone under 18 years old must wear a properly fitted helmet that meets safety standards when operating a bicycle. Violation of this law is punishable by a fine of up to $25.00.
Full text of § 21212If you or your loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in California, please contact a Bike Accident attorney at Van Der Walde & Associates to discuss your bike accident case.
