Politics & Government

Things To Know When You Bike

A new law requires motorists to leave a 4-foot "cushion of safety" when passing a bicyclist.

A law that requires motorists to leave a 4-foot “cushion of safety” when passing a bicyclist took effect at the beginning of this month. Also:

  • Drivers attempting to turn left must also yield the right of way to bicycle riders traveling in the opposite direction.
  • The new law also calls for bicycle riders to use all reasonable efforts to avoid impeding the normal flow of traffic.
  • When there is only one travel lane, bicyclists may use any portion of the lane to avoid hazards on the roadway, including maintaining a safe distance from stopped and parked cars.
  • Bicyclists and motorists should obey all traffic signs and signals.
  • The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation recommends bicyclists always ride predictably and signal their intentions before proceeding so that motorists have a chance to react.

You will find a document of bicycle laws and safety tips for motorists in the pdf section of this article.


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