Rules of the Road

a recap of the laws for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians

by: David Smuhl

There is a lot of confusion among cyclists and motorists as to what exactly their place on the road is. In an effort to clear up said confusion we have lovingly condensed the rules of the road in 12 quick parts. All of these are taken from state statutes available to peruse anytime on the DOT website.

1.

Bicycles are defined as vehicles. As such, cyclists are granted the same rights and subject to the same duties of the driver of any other vehicle.

2.

The state allows local government to permit bicycles on sidewalks through local ordinances. In Eau Claire, cyclists are allowed to ride on all sidewalks except those downtown, within the Water Street commercial district, along Bellinger Street, and in the area near Madison Street. However, when riding on the sidewalk bicyclists must yield to pedestrians.

3.

Drivers must yield to pedestrians when: pedestrians cross a sidewalk or enter an alley/driveway, start crossing an intersection/crosswalk during a “walk” signal or green light, or cross a highway with no marked crosswalks or control signals/signs.

4.

If a car is stopped at an intersection or crosswalk to allow a bike or pedestrian to cross, do not overtake or pass that vehicle.

5.

Always bike at least three feet from the curb or parked cars, don’t swerve between parked cars, take the lane and keep it; it is your right.

6.

When passing a bicycle in a car you must leave at least three feet between the bicycle and yourself, and more distance if possible at higher speeds.

7.

Cyclists must use hand signals when turning. A quick re-cap on what hand signals for cyclists are: Left turn – Left hand and arm extended horizontally. Right turn – Left hand and arm extended upward. Stop – Left hand and arm extended downward.

8.

It is not required to wear a helmet while biking in Wisconsin, but it is highly recommended.

9.

A bicycle/scooter is allowed to continue through a red light after stopping and waiting for no less than 45 seconds if no other vehicles are present at the intersection.

10.

When riding at night cyclists are required to have at least a white front headlight and a red rear reflector.

11.

Two cyclists are permitted to ride side-by-side on any street as long as traffic is not impeded. When riding on a road with more than one lane you must ride within the same lane.