The primary impetus for paved roads was for the safe travel of bicycles!  More and more people are taking to two-wheel rather than four for recreation, exercise and daily travel.  Bicycles are entitled to Maryland’s non-interstate roadways, just as cars are!  Bicycles are subject to the same laws and need to obey the same traffic devices as vehicles.

Statistics

• In 2006, 7 people were killed and another 671 people were injured in bicycle-related crashes.
• Most crashes occurred during daylight hours between the months of May and September.

Helmets

• Helmets are required for everyone under the age of 16, including passengers, who ride their bicycles on the road, bicycle paths, or any public property.
• Helmets are also required for everyone under the age of 16 who are riding on a scooter or on in-line skates.
• The helmets must meet or exceed the standards of the American National Standards Institute, the Snell Memorial Foundation, or the American Society of Testing and Measurements. (TR § 21-1207.1 et seq)

Traffic Laws

• Maryland’s traffic laws apply to bicycles and motor scooters.
• A bicycle may not carry a passenger unless it is specifically designed for and equipped with a seat for each passenger.
• A person may not ride a bicycle, motor scooter, or EPAMD while wearing a headset or earplugs that cover both ears.
• Bicycles are vehicles and as such must obey all the same traffic laws, including stopping at red lights, stop signs, etc.
• Where there is a bike lane or paved shoulder, a person must use those and not ride a bicycle or motor scooter in the roadway except:
• If passing safely cannot be done within the bike lane or shoulder;
• When preparing for a left turn;
• To avoid hazards;

Tips for Drivers

• Leave at least three feet of passing space between the right side of your vehicle and a bicyclist.
• Reduce your speed when passing a cyclist, especially if the roadway is narrow.
• Children on bicycles are often unpredictable in their actions. Expect the unexpected.

For the cyclist

• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Cyclists are subject to the same rules and regulations as motor vehicles.
• Obey all road signs and signals.
• Wear your helmet correctly – at the front of the head and not tilted back.
• Wear reflective gear after dark and have a light on your bike.