Is it ok to bike to work if there is no bike lane?

Question

I want to bike to work for a lot of reasons; save gas, save the environment, get exercise. I biked over there this morning--it is only 4 miles away but the roads are kind of treacherous. For one thing I need to go a very short distance on the side of a country highway. There is a sign posted that says no walking, is no biking implicit then too? It is a very short distance on there, less then an exit. Then the majority of the trip is down this 4 lane road with no break down lane. The edge of the road basically ends right at the white line. I really want to bike. I need the exercise and I can't afford my car. Also, I am happy to reduce my carbon footprint. What should I do? Is it safe?

Answer 1

I would discourage you from using any part of the highway, if for no other reason it is scary when cars whoosh by you at high speed, even create a sense of turbulence. Have a look around and I am sure there is another way, even if not the shortest route to work, best thing is to go to a local bike store and ask them for a map of bike lanes (hopefully they have one) and plan the route that way. You would be surprised just how many ways there is to go from A to B that we take for granted. Bikes can go places cars can't - keep that in mind and I wish you the very best of luck. It is always great to see people get into bicycle commuting!

Regards,

Volodya

Answer 2

doesnt sound like safe to me!

its great that you want to reduce your carbon footprint, maybe try car pooling with others that yitou work with?

idk.

Answer 3

Sounds like you are stuck with your route.  Cyclists log millions of miles on highways just like what you describe.  Statistically, rear end collisions (the most likely kind you would face on the roads you describe) a rare.  Below is a link to a cycling safety video.  Although it was developed in Maryland, it will prove equally valuable in Texas.  

Because Austin is recognized as cyling friendly and because there are so many cyclists in Austin you will probably find drivers there much more aware and willing to share the road.

You'll get accustomed to riding in traffic and a little edge of concern will keep you safe.

http://www.onelesscar.org/resources_safe...

Answer 4

maybe there will be an easier route to your workplace where there are cycle lanes or paths because nobody will really mind if you do use a path.  

Answer 5

Can you hold a straight line while you ride? If not I would say this is an unsafe route for you. You should also consider how heavy the traffic is at the time of day you'll be riding. Are drivers in your area friendly to bicyclists? There are many things to consider to determine if this is a safe route. Are there any alternative routes that you might be able to take? Contact local authorities to answer the legal questions, however walking is walking, whereas biking is the use of a vehicle. Roads are normally designed for and allow bicycles unless otherwise posted. Good luck with your riding to work.

Answer 6

Depending on what  the roadside is made of, dirt,gravel,grass. Even if there is no biking lane, the law says in the United States that a biker should go into the direction of the oncoming traffic that's closest to you.Bikers have right of ways also.