A 3-minute lesson from the Kentucky course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
On the roadway, a bicycle is a vehicle: cyclists must follow the same rules and have the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as you. They're hard to see and vary in skill—a skilled rider holds a steady line, while an unskilled one may swerve, ignore signals or ride without a light.
As a driver you must:
Yield to bicyclists in intersections as you would to pedestrians and other vehicles
Yield where a bike path or bike lane crosses the road
Stay out of bike lanes except to enter/leave a drive, on official duty, if police direct, or in emergencies
Slow down and give as much space as possible; let cyclists clear the intersection before you turn
Avoid slowing or stopping quickly—your brakes are more powerful than a bicycle's
Avoid honking close to cyclists unless a crash is likely—it can startle them into your path
A bicycle's signal may be given by hand, signal lamps or a mechanical device. Riders may need both hands on the bars, so look for other clues—like a head turn or a look over the shoulder—before they change position.
You're turning right at a green light and a cyclist is riding straight in the bike lane beside you. Slow down, let the cyclist clear the intersection, then make your turn—never cut across in front of them.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Bicycles on the roadway are legally considered:
Vehicles, with the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles
Pedestrians for right-of-way purposes
Vehicles only when in a bike lane
Equipment, not vehicles
Answer: Vehicles, with the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles
Bicycles are considered vehicles on roadways, and bicyclists are expected to follow the same rules as motorists.