Ride To The Right. But, Not Too Far Right!
Here are some guidelines that will help you choose the optimum safe position on the road:
Laws
- Most bicycle laws use the same language regarding where cyclists should ride
- Directions to ride “as far to the right as practicable” appear in most laws
- No clear definition of “practicable” has been identified
Safety
- Do not ride where you’re subject to poor road conditions and constant hazards
- Give yourself ample room to the right to maneuver in an emergency
- Ride in the right third of the lane if there is insufficient room for lane sharing
Traffic rules
- Slower moving vehicles travel to the right of faster moving ones
- Motorists are looking for other vehicles in or near the travel lanes, not against curbs
- Follow the same rules as motorists, including yielding right-of-way and signaling
Wide lanes
- Ride just to the right of the travel lane to remain visible to other motorists
- Ride at least 3 feet from parked cars in all situations; consider this a right-side limit
- Always ride in a straight line; do not swerve in and out between parked cars
Hazards
- If a lane narrows ahead or is blocked, signal and establish your position in traffic early
- Avoid riding where glass and other trash accumulates on the right side of roadways
- Avoid grates and gutterpans as they can cause you to crash
Tip courtesy of the League of American Bicyclists (bikeleague.org).