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California Personal Injury Blog
bike laws

Bike Laws in California: Basic Overview

By Ralph Curtis
Sep 11, 2024
Bicycle Accidents
bike laws

In Sacramento, California Law considers bicycles to be vehicles, and their operation is regulated under the California Vehicle Code (CVC). The Vehicle Code establishes rules for all types of vehicles on the road, including bicycles.

So, what are the essential rules every cyclist should know? Here’s what we cover in this article:

California Bicycle Laws Overview

Right of Way

The right of way rules in California state that cyclists have the right of way in certain situations, such as when riding in a bike lane. However, they must still yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and follow traffic laws at intersections.

Road Positioning

Cyclists must ride on the right side of the road or in designated bicycle lanes. Freeways and bridges are generally off limits to cyclists unless local authorities have made specific provisions or ordinances stating otherwise.

The presence of bike lanes or paths will often dictate where cyclists should ride. What about riding on sidewalks? Here’s what you need to know.

Sidewalk Riding

The rules for riding on sidewalks vary by city and county. For example, in Sacramento, bicycles are only permitted on sidewalks marked as bike routes.

Bicyclists are prohibited from riding on sidewalks unless the sidewalk is designated as a bike route.

Now, let’s dive into what you need to equip your bike with to stay safe.

Bike Equipment Requirements

State law states that cyclists must ensure their bikes are properly maintained and equipped. This includes:

  • Proper Sizing: The bike, seat, and handlebars should be adjusted to fit the rider’s height.
  • Functional Brakes: Brakes must be in good working order.
  • Night Visibility: Bikes ridden after dark must have working lights and reflectors to increase visibility to other drivers.

Front and Rear Reflectors:

  • Front Reflector: Bicycles must have a white or clear front reflector visible from a distance of 500 to 600 feet in front of the bike when illuminated by headlights.
  • Rear Reflector: A red reflector is required on the rear of the bicycle, visible from a distance of 600 to 800 feet when illuminated by headlights.

Wheel Reflectors:

Side Reflectors: Bicycles must have reflectors on the sides of the wheels. These can be attached to the spokes or the tires. Side reflectors help to increase visibility from the side and are typically amber in color.

Pedal Reflectors: Reflectors are also required on the pedals of the bicycle. These are usually visible from the side and should help to increase the visibility of the cyclist from different angles.

Additional Requirements: Bicycles ridden after dark must be equipped with a working front light. The light must be visible from at least 300 feet away. While reflectors are important for visibility, the use of additional lighting and reflective gear is recommended for improved safety.

Helmet Laws: Bicycle helmets are mandatory for all cyclists under 18 years old. While adults are not legally required to wear helmets, it is highly recommended for safety.

But that’s not all. Here’s how you should signal your movements.

Hand Signals and Safety Practices

Cyclists must use hand signals to indicate turns and stops:

  • Left Turn: Extend your left arm straight out.
  • Right Turn: Extend your right arm straight out, or use the left arm bent upward.
  • Stopping or Slowing Down: Extend your left arm downward.

Additionally, let’s talk about keeping your hearing clear while cycling.

Prohibition of Earbuds and Headphones

In the State of California, both motor vehicle drivers or cyclists may not use earbuds or headphones while riding.

Using headphones while riding a bicycle is prohibited.

It can impair your ability to hear important sounds like traffic and emergency vehicle sirens.

Riding Under the Influence

Cyclists are prohibited from riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Just like with motor vehicles, cycling while impaired can lead to legal consequences and increase the risk of accidents.

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Motorized Bicycles and E-Bike Laws in California

electric bikesElectric bikes have become increasingly popular, but there are specific rules for them. What are they?

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular in California for their convenience and eco-friendly benefits.

However, e-bike riders must adhere to specific laws and regulations designed to ensure safety and proper use on the road. In California, e-bikes are classified into three distinct categories based on their speed and motor capabilities:

  1. Class 1 E-Bikes: These are pedal-assist bikes that provide assistance only while the rider is pedaling and cease to assist when the bike reaches 20 mph.
  2. Class 2 E-Bikes: Known as throttle-assisted bikes, they can provide motorized assistance without pedaling and typically have a maximum speed of 20 mph.
  3. Class 3 E-Bikes: These are pedal-assist only, like Class 1, but can assist up to 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes often come with additional regulations such as helmet requirements for riders under 18.

What about where you can ride these e-bikes?

In general, e-bikes are allowed on bicycle paths and bike lanes, but they may be restricted on certain trails and paths designated for non-motorized use.

Riders must also comply with local rules, which may vary. And don’t forget about the helmet requirement!

Helmets are mandatory for all e-bike riders under 18, regardless of e-bike class.

It’s also important to note that e-bikes must be equipped with functional brakes, working lights if ridden after dark, and reflectors for visibility.

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