Do Bicycles Have the Right of Way in Arizona?

Before you hop on your new bicycle and hit the streets, it’s wise to first understand what the law says about cycling. In Arizona, cyclists typically have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and must obey traffic signals and rules of the road.

That said, accidents happen. You need to be aware of the options available if you’re involved in an incident, including filing a bicycle accident lawsuit. If you find yourself in this position, find a reputable attorney and ask them:

• How long after a car accident can you sue in Arizona?
• What type of lawsuit can you file after a bicycle accident?
• How much can you sue for a bicycle accident in Arizona?
• How long does a motorcycle accident lawsuit take in Arizona?

An attorney’s recommendations will depend on the circumstances of the accident.

Key Points Regarding the Right of Way for Bicycles

Each situation is different. Here are some key factors that determine whether a cyclist has the right of way in Arizona and if they bear any responsibility for an accident:

Rights and Responsibilities for Cyclists

Cyclists in Arizona have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. This means that cyclists must follow the same traffic rules as motorists when on the road.

You must stop at the stop sign and the red light, yield the right of way when required, and signal turns. These are basic traffic rules that should be observed by everyone using the road.

Crosswalks and Sidewalks

When cycling on a sidewalk or within a crosswalk, you enjoy the same rights and obligations as pedestrians. According to Arizona State Bicycle Law, you must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and on sidewalks, unless directed otherwise by a traffic control or police officer. 

However, motorists need to yield to cyclists and pedestrians in crosswalks. Also, while the state does not prohibit bicycle riders from using sidewalks, the local authorities may. Be aware of any local ordinances and signage about riding in pedestrian areas.

Lane Usage

Look behind you and use hand signals before turning or changing lanes. You should yield to any traffic already in the lane you intend to move to. 

Extend your left arm if you wish to go left. Bend your left to a ninety-degree angle pointing up, or extend your right arm, to turn right. You can use the entire lane if it is too narrow for you and a motorist to ride side by side. However, you should ride as close as possible to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway unless there are obstacles or you are preparing for a left turn.

If the road has a lane designated for cyclists, you’re required to use it unless it is risky to do so.

Intersections

At an intersection, you must follow the same traffic rules as motorists. For instance, you must yield the right of way to others when entering a highway from a driveway or private road.

Passing Vehicles

Motorists are required to maintain a safe distance when passing a cyclist. They should stay at least three feet away to avoid knocking you down.

Final Thoughts

Staying up-to-date with bicycle laws and traffic rules in Arizona will help avoid trouble with law enforcement and accidents. It’s also essential to look for any additional local ordinances that might affect you on the road. Consult an attorney from Gage Mathers for advice or more detailed information about your rights and duties as a cyclist in Arizona!

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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