Cycling offers a great way to stay active, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy your surroundings—but it also comes with responsibilities. When bicycles share the road with cars, trucks, and pedestrians, following traffic laws isn’t just about avoiding tickets; it’s about staying safe. Knowing the rules of the road can help prevent serious bicycle accidents and protect your rights if one occurs. Always reach out to a Santa Monica, CA bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible following an accident so that you can enlist in the proper assistance for your case. Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm serves all of California and has extensive experience in dealing with all different types of personal injury law, so will be able to help determine what steps to take next. Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm values compassion and understanding throughout a case, and will do our best to show this throughout the entirety of your trial or settlement.
Bicycles Are Considered Vehicles
In most states, bicycles are legally recognized as vehicles. This means cyclists must follow the same traffic laws that apply to cars. Riders are expected to stop at stop signs and red lights, signal turns, and travel in the same direction as traffic. Ignoring these rules can put you at risk and impact your ability to recover compensation if you’re involved in an accident. You should know what questions to ask your personal injury lawyer to ensure you are covered by someone who understands the rules of the road.
Always Ride In The Correct Lane
Cyclists should use bike lanes when available, but when there isn’t one, they should ride as far to the right side of the road as is safe. However, there are exceptions—such as when avoiding hazards, preparing for a left turn, or passing slower traffic. Staying in the proper lane position helps drivers anticipate your movements and reduces the chance of collisions.
Use Hand Signals
Communication is key to preventing accidents. Use hand signals to indicate turns or stops so drivers around you can react appropriately. Even though hand signals may seem simple, they greatly improve safety—especially at intersections where most bicycle accidents occur.
Follow Speed Limits And Traffic Flow
While bicycles may not always keep up with motor vehicles, maintaining a predictable speed and staying within the flow of traffic makes it easier for drivers to share the road safely. Avoid weaving between cars or riding against traffic, as this can confuse drivers and increase the risk of being hit. It is good to know how lawyers help injured cyclists, even if it is the partial fault of a bicyclist.
Stay Visible At All Times
Wearing bright or reflective clothing and using front and rear lights are essential for visibility, especially at night or in poor weather. Many states require bikes to have a white front light and a red rear reflector or light after dark. The more visible you are, the more time drivers have to react.
Avoid Distractions
Just like drivers, cyclists should avoid distractions. Listening to loud music, using your phone, or wearing noise-canceling headphones can make it difficult to hear traffic or respond quickly to changing conditions. Staying alert can help you recognize and avoid potential dangers sooner.
When Accidents Happen
Even when you follow every rule, accidents can still occur—often because of negligent or inattentive drivers. If you’re injured in a bicycle accident, report it immediately, gather as much evidence as possible, and seek medical care right away. Consulting with a bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and ensure your rights are protected.
Cycling safely means more than just wearing a helmet—it means understanding the laws that keep both riders and drivers accountable. Following the rules of the road not only reduces your risk of accidents but also strengthens your case if you ever need to pursue legal action after a crash. Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm offers consultations to go over your case so that you can see if you want to pursue it. Do not wait to reach out–it is important to file in a timely manner so that you don’t miss the statute of limitations in California.
