It seems appropriate to post the salient points of the law in regard to cyclists, because of the direct consequential relationship it has to safety. Knowledge is power, they say, and this is no different. If cyclists better know and understand their rights and responsibilities while on the roadways, ostensibly deaths, accidents and incidents will decrease here in the valley. That’s a good thing all around, for motorists and cyclists alike.
Following is a list of the highlights of Title 49 of the Idaho code appertaining to any cyclist on the roadway:
- Cyclists must exercise “due care.” This is defined as “the care that a reasonable man would exercise,” which seems to be self evident except for the fact that society seems to be so unreasonable these days. But exercise due care anyway—police are ticketing riders these days, as well as motorists. Perhaps one ought to consider an insurance policy as well, especially if one’s bike is expensive. Then there’s the possibility of being hit by a car, too.
- Cyclists can ride up to two abreast. This is one of those instances of the letter of the law versus the spirit of the law. There are very few places and times where it would be advisable to ride two abreast on the road, even if it is technically legal. “Due care” enters into the equation here, to be sure.
- Cyclists must ride as far to the right as possible, unless 1) traveling on a one way street with at least two marked lanes, or 2) preparing to turn left.
- Cyclists have “all the rights and duties” of motorists, except those obviously inapplicable.
- Cyclists must signal intent to turn or stop 100 feet before doing so, unless signaling would require the cyclist to ride with less than one hand (that is, if carrying something).
- Cyclists can treat stop signs as yield signs if the situation is safe; but must stop for steady red lights.
- Cyclists can ride with caution on sidewalks but must yield to pedestrians and wheelchairs. An audible signal must be given if the cyclist intends to overtake either.
- Cyclists must use a “light emitting device” that is visible from 500 feet to the front and a reflector to the rear in conditions of darkness or reduced visibility (if one would be difficult to see from 500 feet away) that would impair safety.
Half the battle is to become and remain informed. There are so very many ignorant people out there operating bicycles and motorcars on our roads. If nothing else, reader, arm yourself with these facts in preparation for the all-too-inevitable day in court. It’s how things work these days.
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