California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21200 makes clear that bicyclists have the same rights to the road as drivers. They may utilize the right side of the right lane when possible. They may also take an entire lane if necessary to remain safe.
Along with these rights to command a lane, cyclists are also expected to obey all applicable traffic laws that drivers must follow.
Responsibilities of Cyclists and California Drivers
California expects cyclists to utilize bike lanes when they are available unless the rider can keep up with traffic speeds. But along many stretches, there are no bike lanes provided. In these cases, riders can travel alongside cars and SUVs. Bicyclists should stick to the right side of the right lane when possible.
However, if cyclists feel they don’t have room to share a lane with a vehicle, they are empowered to seize an entire lane. Cyclists may also take the lane if they see an obstacle ahead (such as a parked car) that would push them out into traffic. Drivers must stay alert to spot cyclists in the lane and be ready to slow down in case a rider must seize the entire lane ahead.
Bicyclists must give the same right-of-way as motorists according to California Vehicle Codes. Cyclists must also obey all traffic laws that motorists must obey. That would include never riding while intoxicated.
Here’s the wording of the code that gives cyclists the right to use lanes when necessary.
(a) (1) A person riding a bicycle or operating a pedicab upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this division, including, but not limited to, provisions concerning driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs, and by Division 10 (commencing with Section 20000), Section 27400, Division 16.7 (commencing with Section 39000), Division 17 (commencing with Section 40000.1), and Division 18 (commencing with Section 42000), except those provisions which by their very nature can have no application.
- Additional information on what California cyclists should do at stop signs
- Additional Information on what California cyclists should do at intersections
Contact a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer
California drivers can be ignorant of the law or just careless and put a cyclist in danger of a dangerous collision.
After a bicycle accident involving a serious injury, you should talk over your case and your options with a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Maison Law. If your crash was caused by a reckless driver, you shouldn’t face your recovery costs alone.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our skilled attorneys. It’s a chance to determine how much an at-fault driver should be providing to you. And if you need our help to earn more for your claim, you won’t need any upfront money. Maison Law doesn’t get paid unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the settlement a car insurance company must provide.
