As an avid cyclist, it can be scary out there “sharing the road.” As a driver, it is important to remember that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as Nevada drivers. Cyclists must ride to the right unless they are preparing to turn left or are able to match the speed of traffic. Cyclists must obey all traffic signs and signals and use hand signals for turns and stops.
If you are a driver and sharing the road with bicycles, it is important to remember these tips:
- When passing a cyclist, the driver must move to the adjacent left lane, so long as it is safe to do so. If it’s not safe, you must give the cyclist 3 feet.
- Yield to cyclists at intersections as you would for other vehicles and pedestrians.
- Do not drive or park in designated bike lanes or paths unless you are turning in an emergency.
- Give special care for children and inexperienced cyclists.
If you are a cyclist, you must follow the rules to:
- Always ride in bike lanes or on the right and as far to the right as practicable.
- Cyclists may ride two abreast but should ride single file in traffic as a courtesy
- Obey all signs and signals.
- Use hand signals for turns and stops.
- Ride at least three feet away from parked cars.
- Listen for cars approaching from the side or rear.
- Don’t follow cars closely or ride in their blind spots.
- Always be prepared to stop.
- Check your bike’s mechanical condition before every ride.
- It is illegal to cling to another vehicle.
Contact Us
Las Vegas has a great cycling community with lots of opportunities and bike paths. It is important to remember the safety rules and traffic laws and follow them when you are on the road. If you have been involved in a cycling accident or received a citation for failing to yield to a cyclist, call us today at (702) 433-2889 or fill out our on-line form.
Offsite Resources You May Find Helpful
Here are seven resources that can provide more information and support for those interested in learning how to share the road between bicyclists and drivers:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Bicycle Safety: The NHTSA provides guidelines and information on bicycle safety and sharing the road with drivers.
- League of American Bicyclists: This organization advocates for bicyclists’ rights and promotes education for all parties to share the road safely.
- Bike League’s Smart Cycling Tips: Specific page on the League of American Bicyclists site that provides tips for safe cycling.
- American Automobile Association (AAA) – Sharing the Road: AAA provides guidelines for drivers on how to share the road with bicyclists.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC): The PBIC provides information on bicycle and pedestrian safety and how to share the road.
- National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO): NACTO provides guidelines and resources for city transportation planning, including strategies for designing streets to accommodate bicyclists and drivers.
- Adventure Cycling Association: This organization promotes bicycle travel and addresses bike safety, including sharing the road with vehicles.
