How am I supposed to ride my bike without a bike lane?

Question

I live in SA, Texas and there are NO bike lanes on the roads I have to use to get from place to place. I have to ride along some very busy streets and am afraid of getting hit if I stay to the right side of the right lane. I know that I may not use the sidewalk, but am terrified of getting hit if I stay to the right like I'm supposed to since most drivers here are not used to bikers and drive huge trucks with tiny mirrors. Can I drive in the middle of the lane? Or how do I make sure I get noticed and not plowed over?

Answer 1

Technically, you have the same rights as motor vehicles. They are supposed to go around you or wait behind you. Wear bright colors, make sure you use proper hand signals, and try to ride on the street only when you need to.

Answer 2

Nadine - you need to check the local ordinances.  Actually it is usually ok to ride on the sidewalk unless specifically identified as a no ride zone.  These are typically in downtown/core areas where there are lots of people.

If you have to ride in the road, protect yourself and don't sucumb to "cyclist inferiority".  We have a tendency to worry about cars and trucks too much.  Are we in their way?  

Too dam bad - you have a right to the road.  Yes you must ride to the right - as far as practicable according to the law.  That means you don't have to ride in the gutter - ride too close to the "door zone" of parked cars.  If there is another lane traveling in the same direction - you can "take the lane" because you aren't impeding traffic.

Consider - you don't need a license.  Motor vehicles do.  Why?  Back when the roads were first built they were built for horses and bicycles.  Well, not today, but originally - anyway - those laws are still on the books.  When autos showed up they had to be licensed so they could share the roadway with all of us on bikes and horses.

Obviously times and city planning has changed... but the LAW HAS NOT!

OK personal safety - the smallest percentage of accident on a bike is being struck from behind.  Most common is riding against traffic/the wrong way.  Second is struck while leaving the sidewalk.  SO statistically you are better of in the road.

Yes wear light clothing and invest in some lights.  Reflectors aren't enough you need a rear taillight that flashes and a front light too.

You can do this.  Don't get discouraged!  Email me for more tips.  I've been doing this awhile.

Bike lanes are overrated.  They reinforce the notion that somehow the road isn't for bicycles - when by law - we need to all share.  If your city hasn't figured out a way to get you out of the way of the cars you have little choice than to take your road space and own it responsibly.

Answer 3

I ride in SA too.  SA wheelman made a map of all the roads in San Antonio, and rated them based on how friendly they were. But you're right, most of them are red, as in no lane for bicycles. A lot of riders think of 1604 to be a nice place to ride, big shoulder and the people are friendly.  If you're riding for recreation, check out clubs that ride in packs.  If its for commuting, then stick to less traveled roads. I wouldn't ride in the middle of the lane unless it is absolutely necessary, i've found that small men with big trucks don't like cyclists "hogging the road". Hope this helps!

Answer 4

I always wear a bright colored jersey.Just ride as far to the right as you can. You can't drive down the middle unless you can pedal fast enough to keep up with the flow of traffic.

And ALWAYS wear a helmet !