Bicycling and the responsibility of cyclists in case of accidents is an understudied and controversial topic in the global legal community. But it is impossible to downplay the problem because according to the latest data from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 40,000 bicyclists die on the roads every year. The danger level in developed countries has been significantly reduced by improving road infrastructure and stricter safety measures. Nevertheless, the Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group regularly receives requests to investigate controversial accidents that happen outside of bicycle lanes. To promote general public awareness of the rules governing bicycle traffic in areas without specific cycle markings, we have reviewed the international regulations in-depth and highlighted the most important information for our readers.
Comparing International Experience: How Bicycle Traffic is Regulated in Different Countries
Regardless of the geographical location inside the bike community, there is an unwritten and universal rule for road traffic: If there is no special lane, move in the direction of traffic, as far to the right as possible at the roadside and use special hand signals for maneuvers.
But still, this rule is not official and is quite dangerous, so traffic regulation services create special standards depending on the regional road system.
USA: Road standards for bicycles
It is the United States that in recent years has become the leader in the number of accidents involving bicyclists. In general, in the United States, bicyclists are treated as full-road users and are required to follow the same rules as car drivers. In most states, they must ride “as far right as possible,” except when overtaking, preparing to turn, or passing obstacles. However, some states allow them to use the entire lane if traffic is too dense to safely drive overtaking. The most populous and bike-friendly states, such as California and New York, have a “three feet of distance” rule requiring cars to maintain a safe distance.
Traditions and regulations for bicycles in the UK
The generally accepted Highway Code recommends that all cyclists ride as close to the curb as possible on highways but with a safe distance from the road edge and parked cars. On narrow roads or in preparation for turns, a bicycle may even ride into the center of the lane. Drivers are required to be equally careful and maintain a safe distance of one meter and a half from any bicycle on the road. There are strict fines and even serious legal action for violating the British Highway Code.
European experience in regulating bicycle traffic
The most significant reference point in terms of attitudes to establishing rules for bicycle riders are European countries. A special example for the world community was the unique experience of Denmark and the Netherlands, as the most bicycling countries in the world. After all, only here about 70% of the population uses bicycles as permanent or temporary personal transportation. But at the same time, the percentage of crashes involving bicyclists is much lower here. Of course, the main reason for such successful statistics is the perfectly structured system of bicycle lanes and the respect for the rules of use of signals and bicycle protection among the people.
So even if in European cities there is no specially marked part of the road for cyclists, the rule of using the rightmost lane and a distance for drivers of at least 1 meter from the bicycle works exceptionally well there.
Responsibility of All Road Users and the Importance of Following the Rules
As can be seen by analyzing the experience of different countries in establishing traffic rules for cyclists in places where there are no special bicycle lines, a clear parallel can be seen in the respectful attitude and observance of distance for both car drivers and the most bicycle fans. Areas, where bicycle culture has reached a mass level and almost every driver, is experienced in two-wheeled transport demonstrate the minimum danger and compliance with the rules of safe and responsible behavior on the highways.
Tips for Bicyclists:
- Strictly follow local rules and laws applicable to bicycle traffic on roadways.
- Learn the universal maneuver signal system to be a full and responsible participant in the traffic flow.
- Use mandatory safety equipment: reflectors, portable lights, helmets, vests.
Recommendations for Car Drivers:
- Pay extra attention when meeting a bicyclist outside of special lines.
- Keep a minimum distance of 1 meter or more when overtaking bicycles on the road.
- Avoid dangerous or spontaneous behavior such as speeding or sudden turns in front of cyclists.
Summary
In situations where one or a group of bicyclists are outside the marked lanes of a roadway, they should follow the “rightmost lane” rule. Drivers of passing cars should fully respect the rights of bicycles as full participants in traffic and keep a minimum safe distance from them when making any maneuvers. Respectful and responsible riding behavior for each party will ensure safety and protect against possible accidents. A safe environment can only be formed by a joint effort where each of the parties involved will learn and follow the regulations.
