Kentucky Rules of the Road For Bicycles
Traffic laws, highway signs, rules-of-the-road, and safety requirements apply to bicycles the same as other vehicles. Not all people ride bicycles, but as a driver you must be aware of their rules and regulations. This section includes:
Kentucky law states that cyclists shall:
"Be granted all the rights and be subject to all the duties" applicable to drivers of any vehicle. A bicycle is a vehicle, not a toy, and, as such, must obey the traffic rules and regulations pertaining to all highway users. Motorists should regard bicyclists as they would any other vehicle.
A signal is required for a vehicle that is not a motor vehicle and may be given by either hand signals, signal lamps, or mechanical devices. The signal shall be given intermittently for the last fifty (50) feet traveled by the vehicle before the turn.
Hand signals shall be executed in the following manner when operating a vehicle that is not a motor vehicle:
- The hand and arm shall be extended horizontally from the left side of the vehicle to indicate a left turn;
- The arm shall be extended horizontally from the left of the vehicle with the left hand and arm extended upward from the elbow, or the right arm and hand shall be extended horizontally to indicate a right turn.
- Either arm shall be extended horizontally with the hand and arm extended downward from the elbow to indicate a stop or decrease in speed.
Some counties have local traffic laws called ordinances. These control the operation and parking of bicycles within city limits. As a driver, it is important for you to know what they are and to obey them at all times.
A motorist must:
Remember, bicyclists are not special and privileged. They have the same rights, rules, and responsibilities as all other highway users.
Excerpted from the Kentucky Drivers Manual. This page was last updated on 2005-08-12. Please direct questions and comments regarding this page to webmaster@www.uky.edu. |