Bicyclists Must Obey Rules Of The Road

By Amy E. Feldman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Police believe alcohol or drugs may have played a role in the crash that badly injured a Highland, California man last month. It was the man who was injured who police believe was under the influence at the time. More surprising, he was on a bicycle when he ran into a car.

What most people don't realize is that bicycle riders on public streets have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers and are subject to the same rules and regulations as any other vehicle on the road.

Bicyclists must obey all traffic signals and stop signs, must ride in the same direction as other traffic, not against it, and must signal all their intentions to motorists and bicyclists near them.

In some, but not all states, helmets are required, particularly for children who ride bikes and particularly for people who value their heads.

And, in some states, laws that prevent driving a vehicle under the influence can include a non-motorized vehicle like a bike.

But, if you're riding a bike remember that it's in your best interest to obey the laws because not only do you want to avoid having to see a lawyer for violating the law, more importantly you want to avoid having to see a doctor.