- Bikes are vehicles (though not motor vehicles)
- Cyclists have to follow the same traffic laws that motorists do
- Motorists are allowed to pass cyclists
- Since October 1, 2016, State law allows cars to pass cyclists, even if there’s a double yellow line. If a car is trying to pass a cyclist, they must give them at least 4 feet of space on the side.
- Cyclists must use hand signals to let motorists know they are turning or stopping.
- Cyclists will use their left hand to signal a left-hand turn and their right hand for a right-hand turn. They can also put a hand behind their back to let drivers know they are stopping.
- Cyclists are to have lights on their bike at night
- Lights are required on the front and back of the bike, along with reflectors. Lights can also be used during the day, but it is not mandatory.
- Drivers can be fined if they cause a cyclist to crash or force them to change lanes
- A driver who causes a cyclist to change travel lanes or leave that portion of a travel lane will be fined $200. If the motorist causes a cyclist to crash causing property damage or personal injury there will be a fine of $500 and if there is more than $5,000 in property damage or serious injury, the driver will be fined $750.
- See here for more information: https://www.ncdot.gov/bikeped/lawspolicies
Photo source: http://www.pedbikeimages.org/Jackson