I don’t know about you, but I’ve lost count of the number of times I have had motorists yell at me.
I’ve been told that I can’t bicycle on the road, that I must ride on the sidewalk.
I’ve been told that I am required to use a bicycle lane if it exists.
I’ve been told that I have to get out of the way, when on a 4-lane road I have one car that wants to pass me. A car that can just change lanes and pass me.
Well, PEMCO did a survey in the northwest and it is frightening how much motor vehicle drivers think they know that is just false.
Among the errors:
- Is it legal to ride two abreast?
48% said it is illegal.
RCW 46.61.770 says it is legal. - Can bicyclists be ticketed for riding sidewalks?
54% said yes.
RCW 46.61.770 says no. - Can bicyclists be ticketed for riding in crosswalks?
33% said yes.
RCW 46.61.235 says no. - Are motor vehicle drivers required to give cyclists 4 feet of passing space?
48% said they don’t know.
The RCW says “a safe distance” and the driver’s guide says give at least 3 feet.
Next time a motorist yells at you, consider it an education opportunity.