Author: Sabrina DeVall

Road Facts

Motorists and Cyclists Sharing the Road

It is vital that motorists and bicyclists understand the laws regarding sharing the road. Cyclists are granted all the rights and are subject to all the same laws as motorists; cyclists must follow all traffic laws, signs, and signals — the same as motorists.
WV STATE CODE §17C-11 (http://www.wvlegislature.gov/wvcode/code.cfm?chap=17C&art=11#01)
The tips contained in this fact sheet are based on the West Virginia State Code CHAPTER 17C. TRAFFIC REGULATIONS AND LAWS OF THE ROAD, ARTICLE 11. OPERATION OF BICYCLES AND PLAY VEHICLES.

TIPS FOR DRIVERS
Bicycles should be viewed the same as a vehicle and be given adequate space, care, and respect.
Cyclists are not required to yield their space or safety to allow a car through.
If a cyclist is riding farther away from the right-hand of the roadway for no clear reason, it should be assumed the cyclist is preparing their bike to make a left turn.
Wait for an appropriate time to pass. As a driver, it is your responsibility to make sure when passing a cyclist that you do so in a safe area with an adequate gap in traffic.
Give cyclists adequate space. Allow a MINIMUM of 3 feet distance between your vehicle and the bicycle.
Always pay attention to your surroundings and watch for cyclists.
Watch for turning signals from cyclists.
Cyclists are permitted to ride their bicycles in the roadway at night, so please be on the lookout. The bicycles are required to have reflectors and lights that help make them more visible.
TIPS FOR CYCLISTS
Do not ride your bicycle on sidewalks. It is dangerous for pedestrians and it may be illegal in your area.
Stay alert to vehicles and obstructions around you.
Signal turning movements to inform following drivers of your intent.
WV bicycle laws allow two bicycles to ride next to one another in one lane. However, no more than two bicycles can ride abreast unless on a path specifically designated for bikes.
Use a bike lane when it is available.
Adhere to all road laws, signs, and signals. Do not run red lights or blow through STOP signs.

Watch for passing vehicles.
Recognize that motorists are permitted to pass cyclists on the left when it is safe, so ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the road.
Exceptions to riding close to the right-hand edge:
When passing another bike or vehicle in the same lane
When preparing to make a left turn
When potential hazards are in the right lane
Use proper lights and reflectors for nighttime use to help make you more visible to drivers.
The front light is required to emit a white light visible from at least five-hundred feet to the front.
The red reflector on the rear of the bike is required to be visible from at least fifty feet to the rear.
A lamp that emits a red light that is visible from five-hundred feet may be used on the rear of the bike in addition to a red reflector.

Mutual respect and knowledge are key for motorists and bicyclists to operate safely together on our roadways.

Created April 2021 by the WV Local Technical Assistance Program · http://wvltap.org PO Box 6103 · Morgantown, WV 26506 · Phone: 304-293-9924