Bicycles in Crosswalks and Turn Lanes

Question

Jacob asked: Are bicyclists required to cross at crosswalks, from the right or can they use turn lanes?

Are bicyclists required to walk bikes across the roadway?

Answer

Bicyclists may use the crosswalk if riding on the sidewalk, and when doing so, have the rights and duties of pedestrians.  They are not required to dismount before crossing the roadway unless required by a local ordinance.  I am only aware of one such ordinance at a university where signs are posted.

Bicycles are vehicles and cyclists in the roadway have the same rights and duties as other drivers. They may, and in some circumstances must, use the turn lanes just like other drivers.

For much more information about this see the posts about “Sidewalks and Crosswalks” and “Making Turns”.