While cyclists have the same rights as drivers, when it comes to traffic laws, there are bike-specific rules and regulations to be aware of. These additions are in place due to the high risk of serious injury when cars and bikes collide.
Traffic laws for bicyclists in Albuquerque are designed to protect cyclists from being injured, but these efforts are not always successful. Some acts of driver negligence are so egregious that an accident becomes unavoidable. Let a dedicated bike crash attorney help you understand your rights and guide you through the claim process.
Every state has an approach to regulating cycling on public roadways that affects cyclists in its cities. New Mexico has a non-interfering approach, which means traffic rules and regulations largely treat Albuquerque bicyclists the same as car and truck drivers.
For instance, while streets are often dominated by cars, bicyclists have the same right to be there. They are entitled to use public streets as long as they travel in the same direction as the traffic and yield the right-of-way when required. Riders must also obey stop signs and travel under the speed limit.
In addition to the rules that relate to vehicles, there are specific regulations that only apply to bikes. For example, riders must use a bike path or lane when one is present. It is also unlawful to carry passengers in certain ways, including on the bike’s handlebars. However, unlike cars or trucks, bicyclists are allowed to ride side-by-side in the same lane.
There are also regulations on how a cyclist may ride a bike. A person is prohibited from sitting anywhere on a bike other than a permanent, fixed seat. This specifically includes a ban on passengers riding on the handlebars. The rider must also have both hands free while riding and cannot carry anything that would prevent them from keeping both hands on the handle grips.
Another area where the law can vary dramatically from one state to another is regarding helmets. Some states have strict rules requiring all riders to wear helmets, whereas others have no regulations at all.
When it comes to Albuquerque traffic laws, cyclists are only required to wear a helmet if they are under the age of 18. Minors must wear protective headgear anytime they get on a bike, whether they are pedaling or a passenger. There is no similar requirement for adults; safety equipment is optional.
Even though adults are not required to comply with helmet laws, doing so can save lives. The greatest risk associated with riding a bike is a head injury, and helmets can shield a person from brain damage if they are struck by a car and thrown to the pavement.
In Albuquerque, there are other equipment-related requirements for road bicyclists beyond the helmet law. For example, anyone biking at night must have a white front headlight and a rear reflector. The light and reflector must be visible from 500 and 300 feet, respectively. There must also be a bell or other device capable of sending audible signals.
Hopefully, following these regulations and rules will help you avoid an accident. Unfortunately, despite taking all the precautions, many cyclists are injured in collisions.
Should this have happened to you, understanding traffic laws for bicyclists in Albuquerque is critical if you are considering legal action. Contact our local attorneys at Duran & McDonald for a private consultation to learn more.
