Blog of Charles Bryan Alred
Oklahoma Motorcycle and Biking Laws
Posted on September 12, 2016
There is no better time than early fall to get out on your bike and see the seasons change as you pedal over the pavement. Whether you ride your bike for sport or for work commuting, there are just as many rules to remember when being a responsible cyclist as there are for being a responsible driver in order to avoid preventable accidents. The most common causes of bicycle crashes include motorists turning across the path of the bicyclist, a cyclist riding into the path of the vehicle, riding too fast, changes from major to minor roads, and negligent driving by vehicles. The highest cause of personal injury and wrongful death, are motorists that do not pay attention to their surroundings.
Laws for Bicyclists
In early summer in Kalamazoo, Michigan this year, five cyclists were killed, while four more were injured, due to the negligent, intoxicated driving of a motorist. While the cyclists were obeying all the rules of the road, it is a shocking reminder of how careful all of us on the road must be.
Although not all roads have specified bike lanes or shared lines, when operating a bicycle and sharing the road with a vehicle, cyclists are to adhere by the same rules and regulations they would while in the car. If there is a designated bike lane, the motorist must yield to a cyclist in that path for the right of way. The same rules apply when at an intersection, whether or not there is a designated bike path. Additionally, if attempting to pass a bicycle, the motorist must give at least three feet of clearance and move into the next lane if at all possible.
In the business districts in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, bicyclists are prohibited from riding on sidewalks and can be fined up to $500 under a Class A Offense, a common regulation in many larger cities. It is also mandatory that all bikes ride on the right side of the road and are equipped with a lamp in the front, visible from 500 feet minimum, as well as a back lamp under some local ordinances. While there are no explicitly stated speeds at which a person is banned from biking, it should be a reasonable and prudent speed under the circumstances.
All of these rules and regulations are purposed to help with pedestrian safety, cyclist safety, and motorist safety.
We Help With Tulsa Car Accidents and Bike Accidents
If you or someone you know was injured in a bicycling accident or a car accident, please do not hesitate to reach out to the experienced and knowledgeable team of attorneys at the office of Charles Bryan Alred, PC to discuss your case. Contact our office using our website or call us at 918-745-9960 for a free initial consultation with one of our skilled legal professionals.
