Call Us atLocated in one of the most bicycle-friendly states in the nation, Bothell is a city that welcomes cyclists. Bicyclists have the same rights to road use as other motorists. This means they are also required to follow the same regulations. Traffic laws for bicyclists in Bothell are designed to improve safety and help everyone share the road responsibly.
Learning and following traffic laws for bicyclists can help you avoid accidents and ensure you do not face penalties for roadway violations. Adhering to roadway requirements for bicyclists can also affect your eligibility for compensation following an accident. A skilled bike accident lawyer can assess your situation and offer advice about how your behavior can affect your claim.
What Traffic Laws Apply to Bicyclists?
Bothell cyclists must comply with Washington state bicycle laws. In Washington, bicyclists have many of the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and must follow the same general rules of the road. Accordingly, bicyclists in Bothell must obey the following traffic laws:
- Ride in the same direction as vehicle traffic and yield the right-of-way at intersections
- Obey all traffic control signals and signs
- Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and on sidewalks
- Ride as far to the right as practicable when traveling slower than traffic
- Ride no more than two abreast when cycling side by side
- Refrain from clinging to or attaching to vehicles
- Avoid riding on designated areas of the state highway system, including interstates
Bicyclists are subject to the same penalties as motorists for violating traffic laws. Cyclists are also required to observe laws regarding cycling equipment, including a permanent and regular, attached seat, a white front headlight and a red rear reflector after dark, and a functioning brake.
Bicycle Laws for Motorists
Motorists who share the road with cyclists are also required to obey certain laws that help create a safe environment for riders. Drivers must obey the following laws when driving near bicycles:
- Stop for bicyclists and pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks
- Create at least three feet of buffer space or move into another lane when passing bicyclists
- Check for approaching cyclists before opening vehicle doors
- Avoid using whistles, bells, horns, or sirens to startle or intimidate cyclists
Failure to follow bicycle safety laws often results in accidents that can cause serious harm to cyclists. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can use their knowledge of Bothell’s bicycle laws to identify when violations cause an accident and prove liability.
Contact an Experienced Crash Attorney to Learn More About How Traffic Laws for Bicycles Impact Personal Injury Claims
Bicyclists are vulnerable road users, at a higher risk of suffering severe injuries in the event of an accident. Traffic laws for bicyclists in Bothell are put in place to reduce the likelihood of collisions involving bicycles. Still, even the most careful riders can be involved in catastrophic accidents.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, the experienced bike wreck lawyers at Libbey Law Offices, LLC can help you prove who was responsible for the accident and hold them liable for your injuries. Our legal team can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and even reconstruct the accident scene to provide evidence to support your claim. We never charge a fee unless you make a successful monetary recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
