Although bicycles are legally permitted on most roads in Ohio, they must follow rules that help them stay safe. Cars must also follow rules when driving around bicycles to prevent accidents that can result in serious injuries for bicycle riders. Knowing important Ohio bicycle-related traffic laws can prevent catastrophic accidents and help save a life.
If you or a loved one was involved in an accident involving a bicycle, contact the Ohio bicycle accident attorneys today at 1-800-HURT-NOW.
Ohio Traffic Laws Regarding Bicycles
In general, bicycles are considered vehicles under Ohio’s traffic laws. This means cyclists needs to follow the rules of the road just like other drivers. Some of the traffic laws in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) most relevant to vehicles and cyclists sharing the roads include:
- Section 4511.25 states all vehicles should drive on the right side of the road. This rule applies to bikes as well. Cyclists should ride on the right side of the ride with the flow of traffic. While many people believe it is legal and safe to ride against the flow of traffic, this is actually illegal and dangerous.
- Section 4511.55 requires that cyclists ride as near to the right side of the road as practicable and safe, yet this does not mean a bike has to hug the curb. It also states cyclists should not ride more than two next to each other in a single lane. When cyclists need to pass a vehicle on their right, they must follow the rules of the road and exercise due care.
- Section 4511.31 says the department of transportation can mark portions of the road as no passing zones. In these areas, the road markings will indicate that passing on the left is unlawful. However, section B of this law states that vehicles can pass in no passing zones if the other vehicle is moving at half the speed limit, the faster vehicle can pass without going above the speed limit, and there is plenty of room to safely pass. This enables vehicles to pass cyclists in no passing zones if it is safe to do so.
- Section 4511.39 states vehicles should not turn or change lanes without yielding to the right-of-way and using the appropriate signal. However, the law is slightly different for bicycles. Cyclists do not have to give a continuous signal like a vehicle. Instead, you can give a hand signal once and you do not have to at all if you are in the appropriate turn lane and if you need your hands to control the bike or brake.
- Section 4511.40 describes the arm signals to be used by a cyclist to indicate changing lanes, turning, slowing down or stopping.
Seek Legal Help If You’re In a Bicycle Accident
Both bicyclists and vehicle drivers should be familiar with these laws in order to prevent bicycle-vehicle crashes. If you are involved in an accident, contact the Ohio car accident lawyers at Kisling, Nestico, & Redick today to find out how we can help you obtain compensation for our losses. Call us at 1-800-HURT-NOW.
