Traffic Laws for Bicyclists in Sacramento

Many residents ride bicycles for recreation, exercise, or their daily commutes. To stay safe on the roads, cyclists must follow applicable traffic laws for bicyclists in Sacramento. Understanding these laws can help riders make informed decisions, share the road safely, and reduce the risk of accidents.

However, if despite your best efforts, you are involved in a bike crash, our bicycle accident lawyer at the Law Office of Brian H. Turner can help you get justice. With over 50 years of legal experience, our attorneys have helped many injured locals. We listen, see you as a person, not as a case number, and provide second medical opinions. We are also located nearby and can come to you wherever you want.

Understanding the Traffic Laws for Bicyclists

Under California Vehicle Code § 21200, bicyclists in Sacramento generally have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers. Therefore, the rules that apply to vehicles, particularly at crosswalks and intersections, also apply to cyclists. The laws are as follows:

• Cyclists can ride on the outer right-hand side of a main road when there is no dedicated bike lane
• Cyclists must ride on dedicated bike lanes if available and/or when traveling slower than the speed of moving traffic
• If traveling at the same speed as the moving traffic, you can ride in the center lane
• Riding on the sidewalk is generally not allowed; where allowed, you must yield to pedestrians and notify them of your approach before passing
• No cycling allowed on the expressways or freeways
• All bicyclists must stop at red lights and stop signs
• Do not ride a bicycle while intoxicated or high
• Headphones and earbuds are prohibited while riding a bicycle
• All bicycles must have functioning brakes, headlamps, bells, and reflectors
• Under-18 cyclists must wear DOT-compliant helmets; adult riders are not mandated to wear one
• Class 1 and 2 e-Bikes are allowed on bike paths
• Class 3 e-bikes are limited to dedicated bike lanes and streets; riders, regardless of age which is 16+, must wear helmets at all times

All bicyclists are required to obey these rules for both their safety and that of other road users. Although helmets are not required for adult cyclists, wear one at all times for your safety. Head traumas are real and can lead to crippling injuries.

What are Your Options if Someone Runs You Over While Riding?

Unfortunately, even when you adhere to the rules, Sacramento bike accidents can still occur. When this happens, you should seek legal help to pursue an injury claim against the liable party after getting yourself to safety, contacting emergency services, and documenting the accident scene (if possible).

Bicycle crashes are often caused by the actions of negligent motorists who were either distracted, speeding excessively, running red lights, tailgating a cyclist, or not paying attention. A lawyer can help hold them responsible and make them pay for their errors.

Contact a Sacramento Attorney About Your Bicycle Accident

Following the traffic laws for bicyclists in Sacramento not only protects you on the roads, but it also helps you if you are hurt in a bicycle collision. Our lawyers at the Law Office of Brian H. Turner can help you pursue damages and recover an adequate settlement.

Call now for a free case evaluation.