The month of May has been designated as National Bike Month. In fact, on May 17, 2019, National Bike to Work Day was celebrated. This blog will inform you on how you can share our roadways with our fellow cyclists this summer.
Rules for Riding on Roads and in Bike Lanes
Generally, bicyclists on roadways are provided with the same rights as drivers of motor vehicles. A motor vehicle driver must at all times maintain a safe operating distance between the motor vehicle and cyclist. A cyclist that is riding in the roadway should ride as close to the right side of the roadway as possible but is not required to ride on the shoulder of the roadway.
If there is a bicycle lane on a road, cyclists should use this lane, as it has been designated by markings and signage as a paved lane that is separate from the roadway. The only time a cyclist should leave a bike lane is to pass another cyclist or to avoid an obstruction in the bicycle lane. Motor vehicles should not block bicycle lanes.
General Biking Rules
- When riding a bicycle at nighttime, the bicycle must have a white light in the front and a red reflector on the rear.
- A right turn is signaled by (1) extending the left arm upward, (2) raising the left arm to make a square, or (3) by extending the right arm horizontally to the right.
- A left turn is signaled by extending the left arm horizontally.
- When stopping or decreasing speed, cyclists should extend their left arm or right arm downward.
- A bicyclist is not required to provide the above-mentioned signals if their hand or arm is needed to control the bicycle.
Motor vehicle drivers can be fined between $100 – $1,000 if they violate Article 27 of the South Carolina Code (Bicyclists and Users of Play Vehicles; Rights and Duties).
Do You Need a Lawyer?
You should not have to deal with the insurance companies alone. Our attorneys handle claims every day, and we file lawsuits when warranted. At the Solomon Law Group, we will represent you and fight for you. We want you to be able to focus all of your attention on your recovery and well-being.
Reginald C. Hair is an associate attorney at the Solomon Law Group and has worked for the largest personal injury law firm in South Carolina. He has solely practiced personal injury law since 2016. Carl Solomon is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum® and has received the coveted AV Peer Review Rating™ from Martindale-Hubble®. He has also been recognized by Super Lawyers® and Best Lawyers in America®. He is the founder of the Solomon Law Group, LLC, which represents clients throughout South Carolina.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car versus bicycle wreck, call the Solomon Law Group today at 803-219-8870. You can speak with a lawyer about your options for free.
