As the summer months rapidly approach, people are shaking the dust off their bikes and using them for recreation, exercise, and commuting. With an increase in bicycle usage, safety is always a top concern. One important way to stay safe is to abide by state laws designed to protect bicyclists. In the wake of National Ride Your Bike to Work Week, May 13-17, it seems appropriate to address these laws. So, the next time you hop on your bike remember:
Bicycle Laws Promote SAFETY
S Sidewalks
Check the local government rules to see if bicyclists are permitted to ride on sidewalks. If local rules permit sidewalk use by bicyclists, pedestrians have the right-of-way and bicyclists must use audible signals when passing pedestrians traveling in the same direction. (Wis. Stat.§ 346.94(1) and Wis. Stat. § 346.804.)
A Accidents
Bicyclists have a duty to report accidents to the police involving injury, death, or property damage greater than $1,000. (Wis. Stat. § 346.70)
F Far Right
Bicyclists are required to ride as far to the right as practicable and travel in the same direction as other vehicles. (Wis. Stat. § 346.80(2)(a))
E Equipment
When riding at night, the bicycle must be properly equipped with a white front light visible from 500ft away and a back red reflector visible from at least 50ft away. (Wis. Stat. § 347.489(1))
T Turn Signals
Bicyclists are required to use hand signals within 50ft of a turn. (Wis. Stat. § 346.35)
Y Your Responsibility
Remember, bicycles are defined as vehicles, under Wisconsin law; and therefore, riders have the same responsibilities as drivers of other vehicles. (Wis. Stat. § 340.01(5) and § 346.02(4)(a))