N montgomery county, maryland..why are cyclist treated like cars?

Question

Its really annoying and its scary when they run red lights or they get in front of you and dont do the speed limit. But they are too be treated as cars why?

Who was the idiot that passed this law?

Answer 1

What I want to know is why dont they ever get stopped if they are considered like cars?

Answer 2

Bicycles are treated like automobiles all across the country. They have the same restrictions and rights as a vehicle on any public road where the speed limit is below 50 mph.

"Bicycles are classified as vehicles and are to follow the rules of the road. Existing roads can be modified to accommodate some additional space for bicycles." - Montgomery County, Md. website.

They must obey all traffic signals, but when riding in a lane they must be in the right lane and close to the curb. Some cities have budgets that allow them to construct bicycle lanes on new or existing roadways...but not every city can afford to do that, so you will need to get used to the traffic law that states that you 'must' share the road with cyclists.

Answer 3

I think that's one of the dumbest laws ever!  I couldn't agree with you more.   It isn't safe.  Why don't they use the bike trails?  Why are the local townships wasting their money on the trails if cyclists don't use them.

Answer 4

From what I have read concerning this I agree with you but they claim that this will reduce accident "RIGHT", here are the laws that I found which in my opinion will make for "MORE" accidents.

Bicycles are vehicles and as such must obey all the same traffic laws, including stopping at red lights, stop signs, etc. (TR § 21-1202)

A person riding a bicycle shall ride as close to the right side of the road as practicable and safe, except when making a left hand turn. (TR § 21-1205)

Bicycles, motor scooters and EPAMDs are not permitted on any roads where the speed limit is 50 mph or higher. (TR § 21-1205.1)

Where there is a bike lane or paved shoulder, a person must use those and not ride a bicycle or motor scooter in the roadway except: (TR § 21-1205.1)

If passing safely cannot be done within the bike lane or shoulder;

When preparing for a left turn

A lamp is required on the front of a bicycle or motor scooter, if the bicycle or motor scooter is used on a highway when people and vehicles are not clearly visible at 1,000 feet. (TR § 21-1207)

A red reflector on the rear is required if the bicycle or motor scooter is used on a highway when people and vehicles are not clearly visible at 1,000 feet. (TR § 21-1207)

A bicycle or motor scooter must be equipped with a bell or other audible device, but not a siren or whistle. (TR § 21-1207)

A bicycle or motor scooter must be equipped with a brake. (TR § 21-1207)

Current as of October 2005.