Seven Facts You Should Know if You Bike to Work in California

Do you or does someone you know bicycle to work as a commute?

If so, you need to read these seven facts about biking to work in California.

One Headphone in = Good; Two Headphones = Bad

In California, it is against the law to bike with headphones in. One headphone in, however, is not contemplated by the law, and you can safely bike while wearing one headphone in just one ear.

Use Bike Lanes

California law states, “No person shall drive a motor vehicle in a bicycle lane established on a roadway pursuant to Section 21207 except as follows: (1) To park where parking is permitted. (2) To enter or leave the roadway. (3) To prepare for a turn within a distance of 200 feet from the intersection. (b) This section does not prohibit the use of a motorized bicycle in a bicycle lane, pursuant to Section 21207.5, at a speed no greater than is reasonable or prudent, having due regard for visibility, traffic conditions, and the condition of the roadway surface of the bicycle lane, and in a manner which does not endanger the safety of bicyclists.

Bike with Confidence

Hugging the curb often encourages drivers to pass closely, which will only increase any nervousness that caused you to do so in the first place – so avoid this and keep a safe distance that affords you room to swerve around a pothole should you need to. Bike confidently and directly signal your turns and stoppages to help avoid an accident.

Wear the Proper Lights and Reflectors

When riding at night, you must attach a white headlight to the front of your bicycle or to yourself. Furthermore, bicycles must have a red reflector visible from the back at night. You may attach a solid or flashing red rear light in addition to the reflector. Bicycles must have white or yellow reflectors on each pedal or on the bicyclist’s shoes or ankles which are visible from the front and back. Bicycles must also have white or yellow reflectors on the front half of the bicycle and a red or white reflector on each side of the back half of the bike. These reflectors are not required if the bike has reflectorized front and back tires.

Cell Phones

Unlike motorists, cyclists are permitted to use a handheld cell phone while riding. Be careful! Riding while distracted can be dangerous and can cause an accident.

Parking

Bicyclists may not leave bicycles on their sides on the sidewalk or park bicycles in a manner that obstructs pedestrians. It is worth investing in a strong bike lock to avoid being taken by surprise if or when your bike is stolen from its spot during your workday.

You Need an Attorney for a Biking Accident

Biking accidents can vary in severity and form, as well as cause. If you or someone you know has been in a biking accident, you need personalized representation by an attorney with experience in biking accidents.

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