As urban areas continue to grow and evolve, the interaction between different types of road users has become an increasingly important issue. It is vital for vulnerable road users like cyclists to understand both their right to safety and their responsibilities when on the road. What should you know?
What are vulnerable road users?
In the city of Austin, the term “vulnerable road users” encompasses a wide range of individuals who are at greater risk on the road. This includes pedestrians, cyclists, people on horseback and motorcyclists.
Because they have less protection than drivers and passengers in larger vehicles, the law requires drivers to take an additional steps to protect these road users’ safety. This includes passing at a safe distance, vacating the lane if possible and yielding to road users traveling in the same direction.
What responsibilities do cyclists have as vulnerable road users?
It is crucial to remember that responsibility goes both ways on the road. Texas law grants cyclists all the same rights as a motor vehicle driver. However, they also have responsibilities when on the road. This means that cyclists must follow traffic laws, which include:
- Obeying traffic signals and signs: Cyclists must ride with the traffic, stop at red lights and stop signs, just like any other vehicle.
- Right of way: Cyclists must follow the rules concerning the right of way when navigating through intersections and turning. They must also allow pedestrians to have right of way.
- Riding near the curb: When traveling slower than other traffic, cyclists should ride as close as practicable to curb or edge on the right side of the roadway. They can ride further into the road when passing another vehicle, turning left or avoiding hazards.
- Proper seating: Cyclists should ride only on a permanent and regular seat attached to the bicycle, and the bike must not carry more persons than it is designed or equipped for.
- Handling and equipment: A cyclist must not carry any object that prevents them from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars. Every bicycle must also have a brake capable of making the braked wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
- Proper use of signals: People riding bicycles must use proper hand signals to communicate their intentions to other road users. These signals help prevent misunderstandings and accidents and are especially important in areas with heavy traffic.
- Effective lighting when on the road at night: According to the Texas Transportation Code, a bicycle on the road after dark must be equipped with a head lamp that emits white light and a rear reflector or rear red lamp.
Austin’s requirements for both vulnerable road users and motorists highlights the need for heightened awareness and caution. Following these laws helps ensure that Austin’s roads are safe for everyone, regardless of their mode of transportation.
