bicycle riders do not need to adhere to all the same traffic laws as a motor vehicle

A red reflector on the back of the bicycle.

Any bicycle that is operated in the dark (on public roads) must be equipped with the following:.

The bicycle must allow the rider to sit in an upright position and put one foot on the ground.

The handlebars must be below the bike operator’s shoulder level.

The bike must be equipped with a brake that can enable the rider to stop one wheel on a dry, level, clean pavement.These requirements apply to bicycle on public roads: Takeaway: You cannot operate a bicycle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The fine will be up to $250, and violations are subject to Section 13202.5 If suspected, the arresting officer may request a blood or urine or ask you to blow into a breathalyzer. 21200.5 Bicycle DUIīicyclists have different regulations to follow from operating a bicycle under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Takeaway: Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as a regular car driver. This means a cyclist must obey all traffic signals, share the road, follow stop signs, and right of way. It also excludes provisions from that cannot apply to bicycle riders. This section states a bicycle rider has the same rights and responsibilities as a driver of a vehicle including laws on Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol. Summary of California Bicycle Laws 2022 1.

These summaries also include a one-sentence takeaway to help you remember the laws. To help spread awareness amongst bicyclists and car drivers, we’ve created a summary of California Bicycle Laws. Unfortunately, according to the California Department of Public Health, 189 people lost their lives in bicycle accidents throughout the state in 2016. Following them can help prevent accidents and tragedies, and make the streets safer for everyone. Operation of Bicycles of the California Vehicle Code, which contains California Bicycle Laws, pretty much all the same rights and responsibilities that apply to car drivers apply to bicycle riders as well.Ĭalifornia Bicycle Laws are there for the safety and protection of everyone on public roads.

Bicycle riders do not need to adhere to all the same traffic laws as a motor vehicle