Across the country, more people are choosing bicycles as their main form of transportation—and it’s not hard to see why. Bicycles are affordable, environmentally friendly, and don’t require gas or insurance. But as their popularity grows, so does confusion about where they belong on the road. Here’s what every driver should know: in all 50 states, bicyclists are legally allowed to ride on most roads, with the exception of highways and interstates in most cases. They have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. That means they must stop at red lights and stop signs, signal before turning, and never ride while under the influence. It also means that you, as a driver, have a responsibility to share the road safely. You should always yield to a bicyclist just as you would to another vehicle, give them plenty of space, and stay alert—especially in cities and neighborhoods where cyclists are common. Understanding how to safely interact with bicyclists is an important part of becoming a responsible, confident driver. Sharing the road isn’t just courteous—it’s the law.
Clearing Up Common Myths About Bicyclists
Even though bicyclists are legally allowed on the road, some drivers still carry misconceptions about how bikes fit into everyday traffic. Let’s clear up a few of the most common ones:
Sidewalks aren’t always safer for bikes. While it might seem like sidewalks are a better option for cyclists, they can actually be more dangerous, especially for pedestrians. For everyone’s safety, adult bicyclists are usually better off riding in the street, where they’re more visible and can follow predictable traffic patterns.
Bicyclists don’t need to pay gas taxes to use the road. Not paying fuel taxes or having a license doesn’t mean cyclists don’t belong on public roads. In fact, their lower impact on infrastructure and the environment is one reason states don’t require the same fees. Access to the road is a right, not a transaction.
They don’t cause as much traffic as you think. Most congestion comes from cars, especially on highways where bikes aren’t even allowed. Delays caused by cyclists are usually brief and could be reduced even further by improving road design with wider lanes or dedicated bike paths.
Don’t judge all cyclists by a few bad ones. Yes, some cyclists ignore traffic rules, but so do some drivers. If we banned all vehicles based on a few bad apples, no one would be allowed to drive. And let’s be real: you’d probably rather share the road with a careless cyclist than a reckless driver behind the wheel of a two-ton vehicle.
Bottom line: bicycles aren’t inherently more dangerous than cars. In fact, they cause far fewer injuries and traffic issues. What matters most is that everyone follows the rules and respects others on the road.
How to Safely Share the Road with Bicyclists
Even with more riders on the road than ever, the number of cyclist fatalities in the U.S. has stayed between 600 and 800 per year—despite a 60% increase in bike commuting over the last decade. That’s a sign that most bicyclists are riding safely. But with vehicles weighing up to 200 times more than a bike, drivers have a responsibility to stay alert and minimize risks.
Here’s how to do your part:
Leave Three Feet of Space
When passing a cyclist, make sure there’s at least three feet between your car and their bike. If that’s not possible, wait to pass until it’s safe. Close calls from wind drafts or sudden swerves can lead to serious crashes. Many states even have “3-foot passing laws” to make this a legal requirement.Check Before You Open Your Door
Cyclists riding along the right side of the road are at risk when someone suddenly opens a car door into their path. Always check your side mirror and look over your shoulder before opening your door.Look for Bike Lanes and Road Hazards
Keep an eye out for designated bike lanes and be aware of what could cause a cyclist to swerve—like potholes, trash, or uneven pavement. If you expect the unexpected, you’ll be ready to react calmly.Be Extra Cautious at Intersections
Over a third of bike collisions happen at intersections. Drivers turning right often overlook cyclists approaching from behind, and left-turning drivers may not spot cyclists crossing from the other direction. Always scan carefully before you make a move.Stay Focused at All Times
Bikes are smaller and harder to see than cars. That’s why distracted driving is especially dangerous. No text, playlist, or notification is worth the risk of missing a cyclist in your blind spot or misjudging their speed at a stop sign.
Respect Every Road User
We’re used to sharing the road with other cars, so it’s easy to forget how vulnerable a person on a bike really is. Even if a cyclist is riding unpredictably or slowing you down, the best response is patience—not frustration.
A defensive driver stays calm, follows the rules, and looks out for everyone on the road. That mindset won’t just help you pass your driving test—it could save someone’s life.
Updated 05/13/2025
