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Specific Situations When Can You Drive in a Bike Lane?


Written by Gary Johnson / Fact checked by Henry Speciale

when can you drive in a bike lane

Bike lanes are part of city road planning where there is a designated space for cyclists or bikers. Most of the time, there are pavement markings and optional signs which you can see separating it from the main road. It is an exclusive use of a specific part of the road to keep bikers safe and prevent road accidents.

You will notice that bike lanes are located adjacently to motor vehicle travel lanes. These lanes cover the same direction of regular road motors and vehicles. Bikers also follow the same traffic regulations when in the lane.

Bike lanes are created to ensure that cyclists are safe and separated from motor vehicles. However, there are instances that motorists are permitted to use the lanes.

As responsible motorists, you should know the specific incidents when can you drive in a bike lane. It will save you from violations and road accidents, as well.

Specific Situations When Can You Drive in a Bike Lane

enter-a-bike-lane

Bikes lanes may be made exclusively for bikers, but there are instances that regular drivers are allowed to use the lanes. Drivers who intend to use bike lanes should be aware of any cyclist coming up ahead, and ensure that the driver lets the cyclist pass first.

Also, motorists who are driving in a bike lane should always practice caution and must give way to cyclists who are using it. You should enter a bike lane with valid reasons to avoid road violations.

Here are some of the justifiable reasons when a driver are permitted to use a bike lane:

  • You can drive on a bike lane when you intend to park in a permitted area.
  • You can drive on a bike lane when you are entering or exiting a road.
  • You can drive or enter a bicycle lane when you are within 200 feet of the area you intend to turn.

Motorists should operate on a bike lane based on the city ordinances and road guidelines. Always remember that cars are not permitted in the designated bike lane except for the conditions mentioned above. You can only cross the lane when you enter or exit the driveway area.

Also, there is a dedicated guide when making right turns using bicycle lanes. When turning, it is vital to yield to cyclists going straight, and let them pass first. Once the driveway section is clear, it is the right time to make your turn.

Why are Bike Lanes Important?

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There are other underlying benefits of having a bike lane in your city. Here are the following:

1. Reduced accidents and injuries

If there is a designated space for bikers and motorists, there is a fat chance that accidents and road injuries can be significantly reduced. It gives drivers and cyclists exclusive space when on the road.

2. Provide safety and walkability for pedestrians

Even the pedestrians will feel safe if there are dedicated bike lanes in the city. They need not share the sidewalks with bikers, and enjoy an exclusive space for them. In this way, it is safer for pedestrians to walk, run and jog without worrying about bikers passing through them.

3. Encourage green living and healthy life

Since using a bike is healthier and economical, some motorists would switch to biking once there is an exclusive bike lane for them. By promoting the use of bikes in the city, more people would feel encouraged to ditch their cars and use bikes instead.

Conclusion

Bike lanes promote safety on the road. They prevent the occurrence of road accidents and make traffic more manageable. Even though bike lanes are created for cyclists, there are some instances that motorists can use the lane. In doing so, it is important to always ensure road safety to avoid any untoward accidents.

Did you know when can you drive in a bike lane? Do you agree with my opinion? Just let me know in the comments section below!

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