What Side of the Road Do You Bike On?
Biking is a great way to get around town, as it’s environmentally friendly, keeps you healthy, and you can have a lot of fun. But there are some things you need to know before you start biking around town. One of the most important things is knowing which side of the road to bike on.
The side of the road you bike on is the side where you’re riding with traffic. In the U.S., this is the right side of the road. In general, it’s safest to stay as close to the curb as possible while biking. Biking on the opposite side of traffic can confuse drivers and put you in danger.
In the rest of this article, I’ll explain the importance of biking on the right side of the road and explore the basics of bike lane markings. I’ll also provide some insights on how to stay safe when biking.
Why You Should Bike With Traffic
There are a few key reasons why it’s crucial to bike with traffic instead of against it. Let’s look at several reasons.
It Keeps You Safer
Biking in the same direction as traffic keeps you further away from traffic, making it easier to avoid road hazards and dangerous drivers who may not see you or yield to you properly. If your front faces oncoming traffic, and a car hits you, it’s game over.
Drivers Are More Likely To Notice You
When biking in a lane closest to the center line, drivers may not see you and fail to yield appropriately. By biking alongside traffic, you’ll be more visible to drivers and less likely to get hit by a car.
Drivers Behind You Can Pass You Safely
When cycling in the center lane, it can be difficult for cars or other cyclists to pass you safely, especially if there is a lot of traffic or if the road is narrow. Biking alongside traffic makes it easier for cars to safely pass you and other bikes.
Faster Vehicles Can Get By You Without Slowing Down
When biking against the traffic flow, you risk getting in the way of cars and trucks trying to pass you. Biking with the traffic flow allows faster vehicles to safely go by without having to slow down, which can prevent dangerous traffic jams.
Cyclists Have a Better Time Avoiding Road Hazards
When biking against traffic, cyclists have to look over their shoulders and focus on any obstacles on the road. This can make it difficult for cyclists to stay focused on potential hazards or changing traffic conditions, putting them at risk for accidents.
You’ll Avoid Collisions With Cars Turning
When biking in the center lane of a two-way street, drivers may not always see you and fail to yield the right of way properly. By biking with traffic, cyclists can avoid collisions with drivers who are turning that are not looking out for them.
Pedestrians Can Cross the Road Without Getting In the Way
When biking against traffic, pedestrians may not realize that you’re there and accidentally get in your way. Biking alongside traffic gives pedestrians a better view of cyclists and makes it easier for them to cross the street safely.
It’s Safer For Cars Exiting Driveways Or Parking Lots
When biking in front of a parked car, you may not be visible to drivers leaving the parking lot or driveway. By biking on the far side of the road, drivers can easily see you coming and avoid potentially dangerous collisions.
It Creates a Smooth Traffic Flow
When all vehicles follow the rules and ride alongside traffic, it can help create a smoother and safer traffic flow for everyone. There are many good reasons why it’s important to bike on the right side of the road.
Whether you’re commuting to work, riding for fun, or just getting around town, it’s essential to know and follow the basic rules of the road.
When Can You Bike Against Traffic Flow?
While it is generally best to bike alongside traffic, there are some situations where it may be appropriate to ride against the traffic flow. For example, if you’re passing a slower vehicle or moving into another lane that is closer to the center line, then it may be necessary to temporarily bike on the other side.
Additionally, if you’re riding in a designated bike lane or path and there is an obstruction on the right side of the road, then it may also be appropriate to switch lanes and bike on the other side.
Ultimately, knowing how and when to use both sides of the road is essential to being a safe and responsible cyclist. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, always follow all traffic laws and watch out for potential hazards on the road.
By doing so, you can help keep yourself, other cyclists, and pedestrians safe while biking.
Can You Bike on the Sidewalk?
Whether or not you can bike on the sidewalk depends on where you live. It’s illegal to ride a bike on the sidewalk in some places, while in others, it may be allowed only under certain conditions.
For example, in many urban areas, biking on sidewalks is typically prohibited in busy downtown districts where there are lots of pedestrians. In these areas, cyclists may be required to ride in the street or on bike paths instead.
However, in some suburban neighborhoods or quieter residential districts, riding a bicycle on the sidewalk may be allowed at all times. Additionally, specific local laws may apply to your area, so it is important to check with your city or town hall to find out about any local regulations that apply to cyclists.
The Basics of Bike Lane Markings
Bike lanes are designated areas on the road where cyclists can safely ride their bikes. They’re typically marked by painted lines and sometimes include other features, such as signs or bike-specific traffic signals.
There are several different types of bike lane markings, each of which has a specific purpose.
Sharrows
The name “sharrows” is derived from the terms “shared” and “arrows”. These markings consist of two arrows in a “V” shape, pointing in the direction you should travel on the bike lane.
They’re typically used to highlight areas where cyclists may need to share the road with other vehicles or merge into the general traffic lanes. Sharrows are also referred to as shared lane markings.
Bike Lanes
These markings consist of solid or dashed lines that separate the bike lane from other lanes on the road.
They help to designate safe areas for cyclists to ride when traveling through intersections. Cyclists must ride in the same direction as the traffic unless the markings on a bike lane show that they can move against traffic.
In some states, such as Minnesota, it’s not a requirement for cyclists to use the bike lane. Some reasons one may opt not to use the bike lane are;
- When the lane is blocked by debris or other vehicles.
- Where the bike lane is on the “door zone” of parked cars.
Green Bike Lanes: A New Trend in Bike Safety
Green bike lanes are a relatively new trend in bike safety that is gaining popularity worldwide. They are painted green to increase visibility and make them stand out among other road markings.
One of the main benefits of green bike lanes is that they alert drivers to the presence of cyclists on the road. This can help reduce the risk of car-bike collisions and other accidents involving cyclists.
Green bike lanes also play an important role in helping to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. By encouraging more people to ride their bikes instead of driving, green bike lanes can help reduce emissions from motor vehicles and make our roads safer and more efficient for everyone.
Advisory Bike Lanes
Advisory bike lanes are another type of bike lane that’s gaining popularity in cities worldwide. Unlike traditional bike lanes, which typically consist of a solid strip of paint on the road, advisory bike lanes use broken or dashed lines to indicate where cyclists should ride and how they should interact with other vehicles on the road.
One advantage of advisory bike lanes is that they can be easily added to roads where space is limited. This makes them ideal for use in urban areas and cities looking for ways to encourage more people to ride their bikes instead of driving.
Buffered Bike Lane
A buffered bike lane is another type of bike lane that’s becoming increasingly popular in cities worldwide. As its name suggests, a buffered bike lane uses extra space between the painted bike lane and other lanes on the road, creating an area where cyclists can ride safely.
This helps reduce conflicts with other vehicles while also providing a clear indication of where cyclists should ride to stay safe.
Bike Boulevard
A bike boulevard is a type of bike lane designed to prioritize the safety and comfort of cyclists over other vehicles. These lanes typically consist of extra space for cyclists, along with traffic signals and other features that help to reduce car-bike collisions and allow cyclists to travel more safely through busy intersections.
Bike Boxes
A bike box is an innovative feature in the cycling world. This specialized type of bike lane is designed to make it easier and safer for cyclists to cross intersections, as well as reduce conflicts between cars and bikes at these busy locations.
There are several key benefits of using a bike box.
- They help increase cyclists’ visibility during intersections, making it easier for drivers to see and avoid them.
- They provide a dedicated space where bikes can wait at red lights without getting stuck in traffic, which helps to reduce congestion and make intersections safer for everyone.
- Generally, bike boxes are a great way to improve safety and encourage more people to ride their bikes in cities worldwide.
The video below details different types of bike lanes and how they improve safety for cyclists:
Overall, bike lanes are an excellent way for cyclists and drivers to share the road safely and efficiently. Whether you’re using a traditional bike lane or one of the newer types, such as green or advisory bike lanes, it’s imperative to follow the appropriate road rules and always be aware of your surroundings to ensure everyone’s safety.
Important Road Safety Tips Every Cyclist Should Know
While cycling has many physical and mental health benefits, it can be dangerous. Here are several road safety tips to avoid accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone:
- Always be aware of your surroundings and stay alert when riding on the road. This means looking out for cars, other cyclists, pedestrians, and any other obstacles that could risk your safety.
- Know the road rules and follow traffic signals such as stop signs, red lights, and one-way streets. This will help you stay safe and avoid accidents with other vehicles on the road.
- When sharing the road with cars, maintain a predictable riding pattern and always signal your turns or lane changes well in advance. This helps drivers to anticipate what you’re going to do and respond appropriately, reducing the risk of collisions.
- Wear a helmet and other safety gear, such as reflective clothing or lights, when biking on busy roads at night or in low-visibility conditions. This will help to keep you visible and protect you in the event of a crash or accident.
- If you are ever involved in a collision or accident, stay calm and seek medical attention if necessary. Report the incident to the police and your local cycling authorities, and share all the information about what happened.
- Be courteous and respectful to other cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians on the road. This means always giving others the right of way when necessary, following traffic rules and regulations, and being mindful of your surroundings at all times.
- Practice good bike safety habits. Keep your bike well-maintained, regularly check your brakes and tires, and choose an appropriate route for your skill level. This will help ensure that you always ride safely and responsibly on the road.
- Find a buddy to ride with when biking on busy roads or traveling to unfamiliar areas. Riding with a friend can not only be more fun and engaging, but it can also help to keep you safer by making you less likely to take risks or get distracted while out on your bike.
Watch the video below for useful signaling and scanning tips for cyclists:
Final Thoughts
Regardless of which type of bike lane you are using, it’s crucial to remember that safety should always be your top priority. Whether you’re commuting to work or just out for a leisurely ride, it is critical to know and follow the rules of the road, be aware of your surroundings at all times, and use proper safety gear such as a helmet and reflective clothing.
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy biking on the road and help to promote safer and more efficient cycling for all.
