Ask A Trooper – Bike Laws

Question: In last week’s article you wrote about e-bikes. Can you also just provide a reminder on all around bicycle safety? Thank you.

Answer: If you’re riding a bicycle, you must:

• Obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as you would when driving.
  • The only exception is that bicyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs when the intersection is clear.
• Use signals, if able, to let people behind you know when you’re turning.
• Use good judgement. Remember that you are sharing the road, and it is important to be predictable to avoid a crash.
• Use a headlight and rear reflectors when it’s dark.

If you are driving near a bicyclist:

Stay three feet away when passing.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)