What are the Bike Laws in California?

Our San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney Explains Your Legal Rights

San Diego attorney Bonnici Law Group has logged thousands of miles throughout California and nationwide on his bike. Whether on the road for recreational rides or just commuting to his law office in San Diego, California, Joshua’s passion for the sport of cycling continues to grow along with his commitment to helping those hurt through no fault of their own while biking.

Oftentimes when he speaks to cyclists after bike accidents, or the families of catastrophically or fatally injured cyclists, he finds that many are unaware of what state laws say about many cycling issues. This includes questions like:

  • Do I have to wear a helmet while on a bicycle?
  • Can I get a DUI while riding my bike?
  • What do I do if there is no bike lane?
  • How can I be safe while riding my bike at night?
  • Can I listen to music while I ride?

Our law firm encourages cyclists to familiarize themselves with and understand California’s bicycle laws. Bicycle accidents cause serious, permanent injuries and are frequently fatal. Thus, cyclists must take every precaution to ensure a safe and fun ride.

California Laws for Cyclists

“Not only did he get a full settlement from the driver’s insurance, [but] he [also] retrieved the balance from my insurance for under-insured drivers. I did not even know I was entitled to this since I was on my bike[,] not my car.”

If you are cycling in California, remember these important laws and safety tips:

  • Cyclists are required to comply with motor vehicle traffic laws. They must obey lane designations, stop signs and traffic lights.
  • Cyclists may not cycle while under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs. Often referred to as CUI (Cycling Under the Influence) or BUI (Bicycling Under the Influence), this act is punishable by state law (California Vehicle Code Section 21200.5).
  • Cyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet under the law. However, it is important to note that helmets prevent serious injuries for cyclists of all ages.
  • Cyclists must use hand signals before stopping, turning or changing lanes.
  • Cyclists may not wear headphones when cycling in California. This law applies to traditional headphones as well as earbuds, which may be worn in one ear but not both.
  • Cyclists should ride in designated bike lanes when available. If no designated lane is available, cyclists should ride as far to the right as practicable.
  • Cyclists must equip their bicycles with the correct lights and reflectors when riding at night. Night cycling requires:
    • A white headlamp that lights at least 300 feet into the front and side of the roadway
    • A red rear reflector visible for a distance of 500 feet
    • A white or yellow reflector on the bike pedal or the cyclist’s shoe visible from 200 feet
    • A white or yellow reflector on each side of the bike, forward of the bike’s center
    • A white or red reflector on each side of the bike, behind the bike’s center

The illustration below shows the bicycle lighting requirements in California as outlined in Vehicle Code 21201(d):

Lighting Requirements for Bike Laws in California

The Importance of Hiring an Attorney with Cycling Experience

If you would like to talk to someone about what you are going through, then take advantage of the free consultation our lawyer offers for bike injury claims. We can ensure that you and your family understand how the law may be on your side.

All consultations are given without any obligation to retain the services of our law firm. If you do hire our law firm, then you will benefit from our ability to give the personalized attention of a small law practice while also providing the aggressive litigation experience found in larger law firms. Please contact Bonnici Law Group to schedule your complimentary case review with Josh today.