Bicyclist’s Status – Traffic laws apply to people riding bicycles. Bicyclists riding on a roadway are granted all of the rights and are subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle, with certain exceptions. (14-286a)
Lane Positioning – When riding on roadways, bicyclists are to ride as near to the right side of the roadway as is safe, as judged by the bicyclist, except:
- When passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction (Pass on Left)
- When preparing for a left turn
- When necessary to avoid conditions, including but not limited to fixed objects, parked vehicles, pedestrians or surface hazards
- When the lane is too narrow for a bicycle and motor vehicle to travel safely side by side within such lane
- Approaching an intersection with a right turn only lane, a bicyclist proceeding straight may ride on the left-hand side of such lane
- When riding on a one-way street, the bicyclist may ride as near to the left side of the roadway as judged safe by the bicyclist. (14-286b as amended by PA15-41)
Riding Two Abreast – This is permitted as long as it does not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. Riding more than two abreast is prohibited except on paths or roadways for the exclusive use of bicycles. (14-286b)
Hand Signals – Bicyclists are required to give the same turn signals as motorists, with the exception that a right turn may be indicated by extending the right hand and arm horizontally. Signals need not be given continuously. (14-286c)
Vehicles Passing Bicycles – Safe passing distance means not less than three feet when the driver of a vehicle overtakes and passes a bicyclist (14-232). Drivers must take care when passing a bicyclist proceeding in the same direction to avoid turning right and impeding the travel of the person riding the bicycle (14-242). A driver may pass a bicycle in a no-passing zone if such overtaking and passing can be done safely (14-234, as amended by PA15-41).