Yes, cyclists in California must obey stop signs. Despite a 2021 push to allow California cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs, bicyclists must still observe stop signs and red lights and come to a complete stop.
Many bicycle advocates were hoping that a change in traffic laws would allow cyclists to bypass stop signs when safe to do so. They argue that this change would be safer for riders. For now, stop sign laws remain in place for those traveling by bicycle.
Cyclists Must Stop At California Stop Signs
California traffic codes grant cyclists the same rights as motorists and also hold them to the same responsibilities when traveling in traffic. A bicycle is considered a vehicle when observing right-of-ways in traffic and at intersections.
People on bicycles must come to a full stop at stop signs and red lights. Many cyclists ignore this rule and proceed if clear to do so. However, cyclists in California can be ticketed if caught.
The “California Stop” Bill for Cyclists Vetoed
California lawmakers were considering the Safety Stop Bill AB122 in 2021. The bill would have made it legal for cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs. However, the bill failed. The so-called “California Stop” bill was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom in October of 2021.
Many lawmakers and bicycle enthusiasts said the change was necessary and would have made for fewer interactions between motorists and cyclists.
California stops leave bicyclists in intersections for shorter amounts of time. When conditions permitted, cyclists would not have to come to a stop and then start again. It takes a cyclist longer to reach full speed than a motorist. By only yielding at stop signs, advocates argue that cyclists would be out of the intersection and out of the way of motorists much quicker.
Cyclists and supporters also point out that similar laws are in place in at least 10 other states, including Oregon. They point to studies that show allowing cyclists to proceed when safe without stopping leads to fewer accidents and easier rides for riders and motorists.
Support for Bicycle Accident Victims
Defenseless cyclists deserve a “duty of care” from motorists no matter the circumstances involved. If you or a loved one are the victims of a careless driver, please talk over your options with a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer.
Insurance companies can treat bicycle accident victims and their families unfairly and withhold the support they need to rebuild their lives. Martin Gasparian, the founder of Maison Law, makes sure victims know their rights and he makes sure those rights are observed by insurance adjusters. Contact Maison Law for a free, no-obligation case consultation to find out about all the benefits available to you.
