Cycling Safety
Many cycling enthusiasts love nothing more than an early morning ride, as the sun rises, with cooler air temps and less busy roads. It can be a wonderful time to mediatate and rejuvenate. However, as most cyclists are aware, there are ever-apparent perils. Roads are shared among cars, pedestrians and cyclists.
In Alabama, bicycles are generally considered vehicles and cyclists are required to follow traffic laws similar to those for motor vehicles. Here are some key bicycle laws specific to Alabama:
1. Riding on the right: Bicyclists must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn, or when necessary to avoid hazards.
2. Use of bike lanes: Cyclists must use any available bike lane when traveling slower than the normal speed of traffic.
3. Signals: Bicyclists must use hand signals to indicate their intentions to turn or stop.
4. Lights and reflectors: Bicycles must be equipped with a front white light visible from at least 500 feet and a rear red reflector or light visible from at least 600 feet when riding at night.
5. Helmet law: There is no statewide helmet law for cyclists of any age in Alabama, but helmets are strongly recommended for safety.
6. Passing distance: Motor vehicles must pass cyclists at a safe distance of at least 3 feet, and they may cross a double yellow line to do so if safe and necessary.
7. Sidewalk riding: Local ordinances vary, but generally, cyclists are allowed to ride on sidewalks unless prohibited by local laws.
8. Right of way: Bicycles are entitled to the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles on the road. They must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections.
9. DUI laws: It is illegal to ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that your ability to operate the bicycle is impaired.
These laws are intended to promote safe cycling practices and protect both cyclists and motorists on the roads. It's important for cyclists to familiarize themselves with local ordinances and traffic laws to ensure they ride safely and legally.
