Bicyclists Must Obey Traffic Laws

by | Jun 15, 2015 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

While sitting in traffic, it is not uncommon to see bicyclists breaking rules of the road, including running stop signs, running stoplights, and generally ignoring right of way laws. Cyclists should be warned that they can receive tickets for such behavior. North Carolina defines vehicles broadly and includes bicycles in this definition. The law specifically says, under the definition for vehicle, “…Every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, excepting devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon fixed rails or tracks; provided, that for the purposes of this Chapter bicycles shall be deemed vehicles and every rider of a bicycle upon a highway shall be subject to the provisions of this Chapter applicable to the driver of a vehicle except those which by their nature can have no application…” discount cialis

What does this mean? It means that failing to stop at a stop sign on a bike can result in a traffic ticket. In addition, you are still required to use hand signals to indicate your intention to turn or brake. The law states that, “Whenever the signal is given the driver shall indicate his intention to start, stop, or turn by extending the hand and arm from and beyond the left side of the vehicle as hereinafter set forth. cialis generico para sirve

Left turn – hand and arm horizontal, forefinger pointing.

Right turn – hand and arm pointed upward.

Stop – hand and arm pointed downward.

All hand and arm signals shall be given from the left side of the vehicle and all signals shall be maintained or given continuously for the last 100 feet traveled prior to stopping or making a turn. Provided, that in all areas where the speed limit is 45 miles per hour or higher and the operator intends to turn from a direct line of travel, a signal of intention to turn from a direct line of travel shall be given continuously during the last 200 feet traveled before turning.” cheap viagra alternative

Notice that the section states that this applies to a “vehicle.” We have seen above that a bicycle is considered a vehicle. So this part of the law would apply to a bicycle.

The next time you are cycling on public roads, please keep in mind that you are subject to the same rules as everyone else. Please respect the rules of the road, to make the streets safer for you and everyone else, and saving yourself the hassle and cost of getting a ticket. what is cialis pills