If you’re a cyclist in Arizona, understanding the laws that apply to bike riders can help keep you safe and prevent you from being involved in legal trouble. Knowing what is expected of cyclists and pedestrians alike can help keep everyone safe on the road. Keep reading to learn some of the most important bicycle laws in place in Arizona.
- Every bicycle must have a standard seat attached to it that allows the rider to sit on it. Cyclists may not change the seat for something unsafe or remove it completely from their bike.
- Handlebars must be kept intact, and cyclists should always hold onto them with at least one hand.
- Riding side-by-side with more than two people is prohibited in Arizona.
- It’s important to note that doubling, or riding with two people on one bike, is illegal unless the bike was made for two riders and has two separate seats.
- Only minors under 18 are required by law to wear helmets in Tucson, Sierra Vista, Yuma, and Pima County.
- In addition, all cyclists must obey traffic signals and signs just like any other vehicle driver would, or they can face potential penalties for violations of these laws.
- Bicycles must be equipped with a brake system capable of stopping the bike quickly if necessary. The brake must allow the cyclist to skid on dry, level pavement when applied with one hand only.
- Any bike operated between sunset and sunrise must have both a front lamp emitting white light visible from at least 500 feet away and a rear red reflector visible from 50-300 feet away.
Bicycle Safety Tips
Riding a bike can be a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t take proper safety precautions. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just starting out, here are some tips to help keep you safe on the roads.
Wear a Helmet
This is probably the most important tip you can follow. Studies show that helmets reduce the risk of head and facial injuries by up to 85 percent. If you’re riding with kids, make sure they’re wearing helmets too. It only takes one fall to cause serious head trauma or even death, so don’t skimp on safety equipment.
Stay Visible
Make sure that cars and other cyclists can easily see you by wearing bright colors and attaching reflectors to your clothing and bike. Lights are also essential for night-time riding; attach both front and rear lights to ensure that you stay visible from all angles.
Stay Alert
Riding a bike requires you to be more alert than when you’re driving a car. There is no metal frame surrounding you on a bike for protection, and many vehicles on the road do not respect bike riders and aren’t as careful as they should be to prevent accidents.
Always watch out for potential hazards or obstacles that may arise on the road ahead of you, including potholes, bumps, car doors, and anything else that could potentially cause an accident.
Know Your Route
Before setting off on your ride, make sure that you know where you are going and what kind of terrain lies ahead of you (hills? gravel paths? city streets?). Researching your route beforehand will help ensure that you are prepared.
No matter how safe you are, sometimes accidents still happen. If you were involved in a bicycle accident and need help filing a claim, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our bicycle accident attorney in Phoenix is prepared to assist you with your case.