Sharrows help remind cyclists to stay clear of the opening doors of parked cars (door zone), and to ride in the center of the lane when it is unsafe for other vehicles to pass (take the lane). They also remind everyone that cyclists have the same right to the road as drivers of motor vehicles.
Safety Tips for Bicyclists and Motorists (FEDL 37)
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California Motor Vehicle Guidelines for Bicyclists:
- Are entitled to share the road with motor vehicles.
- Have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle and motorcycle drivers.
- Must obey all traffic signals and stop signs.
- Are lawfully permitted to ride on certain sections of roadway in rural areas where there is no alternate route.
- Must ride in the same direction as other traffic, not against it.
- Shall ride as near to the right curb or edge of the roadway as practical– not on the sidewalk.
- Are legally allowed to ride in the center of the lane when moving at the same speed as other traffic.
- May move left to pass a parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, animal, or avoid debris or other hazards.
- May choose to ride near the left curb or edge of a one-way street.
- Should ride single file on a busy or narrow street.
- Must make left and right turns in the same way drivers do, using the same turn lanes.
- If the bicyclist is traveling straight ahead, he or she should use a through traffic lane rather than ride next to the curb and block traffic making right turns.
- Must signal all their intentions to motorists and bicyclists near them.
- Must wear a helmet if under the age of 18.
- Should carry identification.
During darkness, bicyclists must have the following equipment:
- A front lamp emitting a white light visible from a distance of 300 feet.
- A rear red reflector visible from a distance of 500 feet.
- A white or yellow reflector on each pedal or on the bicyclist’s shoes or ankles visible from a distance of 200 feet.
For more information visit the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition