When riding on the road, bikes are “vehicles” and must follow most vehicle laws (41-6a-1102). Remember to ride predictably and follow these basic rules of the road.

• Ride in the same direction as traffic (41-6a-1105).

• Ride as far right as practicable, except when avoiding hazards, preparing for a turn, or if the lane is too narrow to share safely (41-6a-1105).

• Obey traffic signals including signs and road markings (41-6a-305).

• You may treat stop signs as yield signs: slow, yield to others, and proceed when clear (41-6a-1105).

• Two cyclists may ride side-by-side if they don’t block traffic (41-6a-1105).

• Always keep at least one hand on the handlebars (41-6a-1112).

• Don’t race on the road unless approved by a highway authority (41-6a-1111).

• Don’t attach yourself to a moving vehicle (41-6a-1104).

Pedestrians have priority on sidewalks, paths, and trails. Slow down and be courteous.

• Bikes and e-bikes are allowed on sidewalks and trails unless prohibited by city laws - always check local ordinances (41-6a-1106, 41-6a-1115.5).

• When on sidewalks, paths, trails, or crosswalks - yield to pedestrians and ride at a reasonably slow and safe speed (41-6a-1106).

• Cyclists must give an audible signal before passing a pedestrian (41-6a-1106).

• Cyclists may park on the sidewalk as long as they don’t block pedestrian traffic (41-6a-1402).

• If an off-street bike path is provided, road signs or markings may require you to ride there rather than on the road (41-6a-1105).

Intersections are where most crashes occur. Predictable positioning and clear signals help drivers anticipate your movements and reduce conflicts.

• You may treat stop signs as yield signs: slow, yield to others, and proceed when clear (41-6a-1105).

• Cyclists may use the crosswalk, but must yield to pedestrians and ride at a reasonably slow and safe speed (41-6a-1106).

• Signal at least 2 seconds before turning or stopping (41-6a-804).

• You are not required to keep signaling if both hands are needed for control (41-6a-1109).

• Once stopped in a turn lane, you do not need to signal again before completing the turn (41-6a-1109).

• How to make a left turn:

  • Option 1 - Use the left-turn lane like a vehicle; or

  • Option 2 - Two-stage left turn. Stay on the right side of the road, ride through the intersection, stop, turn left and wait to cross in the new direction.

• Avoid passing on the right of right-turning vehicles.

• Helmets - only required for e-bike and e-scooter riders under 21 years old when riding on roads (not paths) (41-6a-1505).

• Lights at night (41-6a-1114):

  • White headlight

  • Rear taillight or reflector

  • Side-facing reflectors or lights (front light is often visible from the side)

• Brakes capable of stopping within 25 ft at 10mph on dry pavement (41-6a-1113).

• Bells are options. No sirens or whistles allowed (41-6a-1113).

• A peace officer may stop and inspect your bike if there is reasonable cause to believe your bike is missing proper equipment or is not in good condition (41-6a-1110).

• Drivers must give at least 3 feet of space when passing a cyclists (41-6a-706.5)

• It is illegal to distract a cyclist or force them off the road (41-6a-706.5).

• Drivers may cross the centerline to pass safely (41-6a-701).