California Bicycle Equipment Laws
Some of the most relevant laws governing bicycle use include.
California bicycle equipment laws. Motorized bikes also called electric bicycles are similar to mopeds but california law treats them differently. California electric motorized bicycle laws. It is important to learn and obey these laws if you wish to avoid legal trouble such as traffic infractions in san jose. Riding a motorized bicycle in california takes obeying different laws than on a standard bike.
Vehicle code 21200 vc california s vehicle laws applicable to bicycle riders. While there are many laws on cycling we believe the ones listed below are the most important california bicycle laws. Bicycle law in california is the parts of the california vehicle code that set out the law for persons cycling in california and a subset of bicycle law in the united states in general pretty much all the same rights and responsibilities that apply to car drivers apply to bicycle riders as well. The california vehicle code contains the state laws that specify where and how bikes must operate.
Under california law every person who rides a bike on a street or highway has the same. Relevant laws pertaining to bike use fall under the california vehicle code. California vehicle code 21200 a states that bicycle riders have all the rights and are subject to all the responsibilities and duties as drivers of vehicles. These laws outline everything from the definition of a bicycle to proper use and conduct.
These and other cycling laws can be found in the california vehicle code which we abbreviate as cvc we provide links to the each section of the code cited below. There are some specific rules. In 2001 bob wrote the legal analysis section in bicycle accident reconstruction for the forensic engineer and in 2007 bob authored bicycling the law the first book on bicycle law written for cyclists since the road rights and liabilities of wheelmen was published in 1895. 1 this means for example bicyclists must perform such actions as.
Top ten california bicycle laws every cyclist should know. There are three different classes of electric bikes. Vc 21200 use of a bicycle. Below for your benefit we summarize the key sections of the law that relate to cycling.
For the most part bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. A motorized bicycle is defined by having pedals and an electric motor with fewer than 750 watts. California motorized bicycle laws. A a person under 18 years of age shall not operate a bicycle a nonmotorized scooter or a skateboard nor wear in line or roller skates nor ride upon a bicycle a nonmotorized scooter or a skateboard as a passenger upon a street bikeway as defined in section 890 4 of the streets and highways code or any other public bicycle path or trail unless that person is wearing a properly.