Bicycling is a great method for covering short distances. It offers a welcome respite from the car, saves money on gas, and is an environmentally friendly way to commute. Knowing Arkansas’ biking laws is the best way to keep yourself safe on roadways. If you or someone you care for has suffered an injury as a result of being involved in a bicycle accident, contact an experienced Little Rock bike accident lawyer right away. Before taking to the pavement, review our guide of applicable Arkansas bicycle safety laws.
What Rules Are Bikes Required to Follow?
According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, bicyclists are required to follow the rules of the road, just like cars. This means:
-Communicating intent through gestures, like signaling to turn
-Biking with the flow of traffic
-Obeying all traffic signals
-Using a bike path when possible
-Remaining visible at night
Bike Laws in Arkansas
Bike statutes in Arkansas can be lumped into four basic principles:
-Maintain control. Most bicycle injuries are single crashes, meaning they involve a cyclist falling or hitting something stationary (as opposed to hitting a car). Check that your bike is adjusted to your height. Inspect it regularly, just as you would a car. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Bicyclists are subject to the same DUI rules as cars.
-Ride to the right. Riding at the right puts you with the flow of traffic, but you should ride on the (right) shoulder as well. Riding on the right keeps you in view of motorists and allows them to anticipate your movements. Keeping to the shoulder keeps you from obstructing the flow of traffic. When riding, keep an eye out for hazards like road debris, manhole covers, and parked cars. Only take the lane when the right shoulder is too narrow for you to navigate safely.
-Ride alert. Motorists are obligated to give you a reasonable berth and exercise caution, but being a defensive rider will minimize your chances of being in an auto accident involving a bicycle rider. Dress in bright, visible clothing. Use mirrors to increase your visibility. Most importantly, be prepared to stop suddenly and take evasive action when necessary.
-Protect yourself. Even if you’re using all necessary precautions, you can’t account for the actions of others on the road. Helmets provide protection from injuries that could last a lifetime. Choose a helmet that fits well—your life could depend on it. While riding without a helmet isn’t against the law, it’s the best bet for your safety.
Things to Avoid
Most bike accidents are preventable by avoiding some basic bad practices. Follow these guidelines:
-Don’t dart out in front of traffic. Yield to cars and give yourself plenty of time to turn. It’s hard to predict how fast traffic is coming.
-Don’t ride against traffic. It’s against the law, and rightfully so: this practice accounts for one-fifth of bike accidents with cars.
-Don’t ride on sidewalks. Whenever possible, keep to the side of the road. Sidewalks are for pedestrians. In the event safe travel on the roadway is impossible, yield to pedestrians on sidewalks.
Tips for Motorists
Drivers are expected to exercise reasonable care to bikers on the road. Observe some basic precautions:
-Avoid honking your horn at bikers—it may startle them.
-Leave three feet between you and a cyclist.
-Be patient, and wait until it’s safe to pass.
-Share the road. Be courteous and respectful.
Have You Been in a Biking Accident?
Injuries sustained in a bike accident can be catastrophic. Your first concern should be your recovery, but you may be wondering how to pay your medical bills and other expenses after missing so much work. If you’ve been injured as the result of someone else’s negligence, call our office for a free case evaluation with an experienced Little Rock injury lawyer. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, so you only pay if we win. Contact us to schedule your risk-free initial consultation today.