What is illegal with the bicycle and the road?

Question

I've always ridden my road cycle even before gas got this way. Anyway.... Can bicycles cross the white line to get into left turn lanes (enter and drive w/ the cars) at any location besides a crosswalk. Can we ride on freeway edges ( in WA state). I commute to college.

Answer 1

Well it's always different everywhere, but here are the general rules that need to be accepted for Cyclists.

1. You always need to wear a helmet. This is a given. First off, no matter what anybody tells you, wearing a helmeet will SAVE YOUR LIFE. No matter how dorky it looks. You will also probably get at least a warning from a cop if not other people. But now, especially in Canada and some states, not wearing a helmet is grounds for a very large fine.

2. It is TECHNICALLY considered illegal to bike on sidewalks, or roads where pedestrians walk. Depending on your legal system, some states/provinces are very very strict about this, and will fine, if not arrest you for doing this. most places though won't even do anything unless you're recklessly driving.

3. You need to have a reflector on both wheels, and your handlebars. This is very important, not only is this the one you will most likely be pulled over for, but if you're riding at night, or in poor weather conditions, having reflectors will let cars know you're around. Often people who aren't wearing helmets will be found without reflectors, and get a double fine.

3.5. This also applies for Lights (the flashing ones or even regular ones). You can buy lights now that work 2 ways. Usually if you've been cycling through the day, the pedalling charges the light, and you turn it one when it gets dark, but if you havn't been cycling during the day, it will also be powered by pedaling. It also will probably have a backup battery.

4. I think thats about it. Just follow these rules and you'll be biking safely and legally in no time!

Answer 2

Here in Oregon bicycles are considered vehicles, so they can enter the left turn lane with cars.  They can also ride on freeway edges. I'm pretty sure I've seen people riding their bike on the freeway shoulder in Washington too, but i'm not completely sure.  

Answer 3

Bicycles are illegal on freeways, just like pedestrians, I think. There should be signs and stuff, or google road laws for your state.

Answer 4

I don't know about WA, but here in PA limited access highways are off limits. Anything with merges and exit ramps is pretty dangerous on a bicycle. In city traffic you are just like another vehicle. You should get in the correct lane to make a turn. I stick to the right side of the left lane if I have to get in it to turn. Drivers are required to share the road. Occasionally, some ignoramus will horn me (worst possible thing you can do to bicyclist unless you are about to hit him). I once threw my water bottle at some idiot and followed him into the mall parking lot to calmly  explain the rules of the road to him. Unfortunately, he decided not to visit the mall that day. He sped out the exit and back down the highway.