[TriLUG] [OT] TriLUGger on the news

Scott Chilcote scottchilcote at earthlink.net
Tue May 22 12:55:31 EDT 2007


Dave Sorenson wrote:
> Apples and oranges. Bicycles are classified as slow moving vehicles and 
> are supposed to maintain as far right as possible. Motorcycles being 
> vehicles that can maintain regular traffic speeds are not subject to 
> that. I speak as a former TV news photographer who covered way too many 
> of these types of accidents. If you are on a bicycle, and are in the 
> middle of a traffic lane you will not get the same leeway from the 
> investigating LEO in an accident, in fact you could be cited for 
> impeding the flow of traffic and contributing to the cause of the 
> accident. The car driver will likely get a ticket for running you over 
> either way, but the bike rider certainly has responsibility to not 
> impede traffic the same as other slow moving vehicles (farm equipment 
> etc...)
> 
> Dave

I need to correct this, because it is a misunderstanding of the law that 
deprives bicyclists of their rights.  There is no special "slow moving 
vehicle" classification for bicyclists.

 From the NC Driver's Handbook, Page 95:

"Because bicycles are vehicles, bicyclists must obey the same traffic 
laws as other drivers."

"Bicyclists usually ride on the right side of the road, but are entitled 
to the use of a full lane."

"A bicyclist staying to the right in their lane is accommodating the 
following drivers by making it easier to see when it is safe to pass, 
and easier to execute the pass.  Drivers wishing to pass a bicyclist may 
do so only when there is abundant clearance and no oncoming traffic is 
in the opposing lane.  When passing a bicyclist, always remember the 
bicyclist is entitled to the use of a full lane."

The penalty for failing to yield right of way to a bicyclist, 
motorcycle, or motor scooter is higher than than for another car.  I 
didn't know that until I looked just now.

The guideline that I have heard cited most often is that bicyclists need 
to ride as far to the right as is safe under the circumstances.  This 
allows the full lane to be used when it is dangerous to ride near the 
shoulder, for example when broken glass or gravel is present.

I do oppose a bicyclists blocking the lane unless it is very important - 
it certainly does not make life easier for other bicyclists.

--
Scott C.



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