If you’re a motorist, you’ve probably asked yourself, “When can you enter a bicycle lane?” While your uncertainty is absolutely warranted, you must understand that bike lanes are meant for bicyclists since riding on the road could be quite dangerous for them.
But is there any law that actually prohibits entering a bike lane? Are there any exceptions? Read on to learn more about bike lanes, laws pertaining to them, and other things you should keep in mind.
What Do Bike Lanes Look Like?
A bike lane is a portion of a road that’s designed to be used exclusively by bicyclists and pedestrians in the absence of a sidewalk. Think of it as a traffic lane for bike users. They are typically located adjacent to the right-hand side of the road near the curb.
These are marked clearly by solid white lines, pavement markings, and signage. Sometimes, bike lanes may be painted green or a brighter color for the sake of improved visibility in the dark.
You may notice some dotted lines across the bicycle lane. This marks the area that can be crossed by motor vehicles. Lanes follow certain width requirements that you, as a road user, must adhere to at all times.
But what if you need to use bike lanes for parking or to make a turn? Well, brace yourselves, for the rest of this article explains just that in as much detail as possible.
Can You Drive On A Bike Lane?
If you’d prefer a straightforward answer, then no, you are not allowed to use a bike lane.
The government has designated bike lanes to bike users due to many safety concerns and issues. This is why many countries like the U.S. and Netherlands penalize this via fines or tickets. However, for the most part, this doesn’t call for any jail time as such.
According to the California Vehicle Code 21209, for example, you can’t use a bike lane unless you’re parking, entering or leaving the roadway or driveway area, or preparing for a turn from an intersection. If you are cited for being involved in the violation of this law, you could receive a negligent operator license suspension and/or a point on your DMV record.
Turning When There’s a Bike Lane
When you do need to use the bike lane to turn, it’s crucial to keep a few things in mind. These are as follows:
When Turning Right
Stay Close to the Right: Make sure to stick to the right side of the road. This way, you’ll be able to make a right turn safely without catching anyone off guard.
Watch for Bikers and Pedestrians: Keep your eyes peeled for bicycles or people who are crossing the lane. This is an integral step to ensure your motor vehicle doesn’t inflict any injuries on anyone.
Signal Early: Make sure to yield to cyclists and pedestrians by flicking on your turn signal 100 feet before you reach the corner. This helps give them a heads-up and avoid any collisions or accidents.
Merge into the Bike Lane: Then merge into the bike lane after the 200-foot limit. If you stop before that limit, you could be fined.
When Turning Left
Alternatively, if you’re turning left, there’s a simple thing you should keep in mind. Be extra cautious and cross the lane with care. Make sure to look to your right and left and cross the bike lane with care.
Take your time to make your turn and stay aware of bicyclists who may zip past your car unexpectedly.
Whenever you’re working in close proximity with cyclists, you must make them feel safe by being benevolent and letting them pass first. If you don’t do this, people would feel perturbed by your presence near the lane.
Even the pedestrians will feel safer. Now, they can walk, pace, or jog without the looming threat of being hit by a car.
Now, you should be ready to use this exclusive space whilst staying on the right side of the law.
The Benefits of Cycling In a Bicycle Lane
People who use exclusive bike lanes should be aware of its benefits and actually appreciate its value and importance.
An Eco-Friendly Change
Since using a bike is much more feasible, motorists would switch to biking instead. Using bikes instead of motor vehicles can greatly reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and other gasses that could pollute the environment.
A Healthier Option
Using a bike is healthier and conducive to a much better lifestyle. Bikes don’t have engines to move them forward and, thus, rely on your pedaling. This helps keep you moving and allows you to obtain a seriously effective full-body workout.
Reduce Traffic
Bike lanes can lower the number of motor vehicles on the road. This can help keep the people content because they no longer need to fret about having to deal with traffic jams and getting to work later than they should.
Convenience
Bikers can easily park their bikes in the lane and go to their favorite cafe or bakery without having to look for a parking spot like they’d have to if they’d been driving a car.
All in all, using bicycle lanes is an incredibly healthy, cheap, practical, and convenient idea that can work in favor of the environment and overall atmosphere of a city or, perhaps, even an entire country.
Conclusion
That brings us to the end of this article about dedicated bike lanes and when drivers are permitted to use them. Remember that cars are way larger than any bicycle and driving them in a space for cyclists would be both illegal and unfair.
If you’re a car owner, you must understand the significance of respecting the bikers’ and pedestrians’ spaces and approaching the matter with dignity and decorum. Now, you’re all set take your bicycle into the world and pursue your wildest expeditions. Have fun!
