While you don’t need a special license to ride a bike in Wisconsin, you are still subject to a series of laws when you’re on the road. Whether you ride recreationally or pedal every day to work, knowing state bicycling laws will help you promote a safer flow of traffic. To help you cycle with confidence and avoid incidents that may require the help of a car accident attorney, here are five bike laws to be aware of.
What Are Wisconsin Bicycle Laws?
1. Lane Positioning
You should always ride on the right side of the road to match the flow of traffic. Unless you’re passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding a hazard in the lane, you’re expected to travel as far right as safely and reasonably possible.
2. Stopping
Just like other motorists, bicyclists are required to come to complete stops if they encounter stop signs or red lights. If you come across a light that is activated by a vehicle-weight sensor, and there is no other traffic, you may continue riding if you have waited at the red light for at least 45 seconds.
3. Right-of-Way
Motor vehicles are not allowed to cross over into designated bike lanes unless they need to enter a driveway, merge before turning at an intersection, park, or reenter traffic from a parking space. Even during these instances, drivers must give all those in the bike lane right-of-way.
4. Night Visibility
To reduce the risk of accidents at night, bikers are required by law to increase their visibility. Specifically, the rider or the bike must be equipped with a white front light that is visible from 500 feet. The back must be fitted with a red rear reflector that is visible between 50 and 500 feet. To increase your visibility, consider wearing bright and reflective clothing.
If you abide by these rules and get in a collision, you may be able to seek compensation from the at-fault driver with help from a car accident attorney.
5. Signaling
Unless you need both hands to bike safely, you should also signal your direction before you turn at a stop or change lanes. To indicate a left turn, hold your left arm out straight. To signal a right turn, you can either raise your left arm at a 90-degree angle or hold the right arm out straight.
If you’ve experienced injuries in a bike-vehicle collision, the experienced car accident attorneys of Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Associates, LLC, are here to help. Well-versed in local traffic and auto accident laws, these lawyers will review every aspect of your case to prove that the at-fault party is liable, as well as ensure you get fair compensation for any related biking or pedestrian injuries. To learn more about these personal injury attorneys and their approach to dependable legal representation, visit the firm online. If you’d like to arrange a consultation, call the La Crosse, WI office at (877) 784-1230.