Bicycle Safety Law Study (HB232) Update

The recommendations in NCDOT’s  HB232 Bicycle Safety Law Study report are now in the hands of the General Assembly.   We’ve boiled down the key points to help you spread the word.

BikeWalk NC supports, among other items:

• Allowing motorists to cross a solid yellow line to pass bicyclists.  This will make it easier for motorists to pass cyclists and we want to be passed!

We oppose Limits to Lane Positioning

• Requiring riding to the right encourages same-lane passing.
• Bicyclists don’t ride in the middle of the lane to be rude – it is a defensive move to signal to motorists that same-lane passing is not safe. It also makes us more conspicuous from behind.
• Same-lane passing is not safe on most NC roads.

We oppose Requiring Group Ride Permitting

• Further study is appropriate before any such restrictions are imposed – even NCDOT admits group riding is a small problem that hasn’t been evaluated sufficiently.
• BWNC has collaborated with experts to develop group ride best practices we hope you’ll all follow.
• We want to encourage group riding in our state – it is big business – attracting tourist spending and raising millions for charities.  Plus it saves us money by keeping us healthy.

Riding double- or single-file is already current practice for most bicycle groups.  If a new law to limit riding to two-abreast is considered, allowance must be made for formation changes and at intersections, as otherwise motorists would be further impeded.

Find your legislator here and talk to them now, before they return to Raleigh April 25th.  Let them also know why cycling is important to you and our state, and share any unsafe encounters you’ve had with motorists.

See also the article BikeWalk NC Feedback on NCDOT’s H232 Study Report for more detailed information.