Bike Safety is for Everyone
With warmer weather on the horizon, the community can expect to see more and more bikes on the roads. The City of Hood River reminds community members that the roadways are meant for many different modes of transportation, and it is important for everyone to safely share the road.
Bikes offer health and environmental benefits, and getting around town by bike can be faster door-to-door than driving. Both cyclists and motorists must understand the rules of the road to prevent collisions. When driving, always keep an eye out for bicyclists and give riders plenty of space when passing.
Bikes are considered vehicles and must follow traffic laws, including obeying speed limits and stopping for pedestrians. However, there are some exceptions and differences in the rules for bicycles that both cyclists and drivers should be aware of.
Hood River Municipal Code Chapter 10.48:
Stop as Yield Law: In Oregon, the Stop as Yield Law allows bicycle riders to treat stop signs and flashing red lights as “yield” signs. Cyclists must slow to a safe speed, however if there is no approaching cross-traffic with the right-of-way, they can instead roll through the stop sign without coming to a complete stop. All other right-of-way rules still apply, which includes stopping for pedestrians.
The law was put in place to protect cyclists who are at their most vulnerable when in the intersection. They must use their own muscle power to start, re-balance, and regain speed.
Learn more here: StopAsYield_Brochure.pdf
Bicycle Lights: Anyone operating a bicycle, including minors (parents and guardians are responsible), in Hood River must adhere to state law equipment requirements, and may be fined for failure to do so. Bicycle lights are considered lighting equipment and must be used in limited visibility conditions, including nighttime.
- A bicycle or its rider must use lighting equipment that:
- Includes a white light visible 500 feet from the front of the bicycle, and
- Includes a red light or red reflector visible 600 feet from the rear of the bicycle when the vehicle’s low beam headlights are in use.
Hand Signals : As a rider, it is important to signal an intention to turn or change lanes. Simply use your left or right arm to signal the corresponding maneuver direction.
E-Bikes: You must be 16 years old or have a driver’s learner permit to ride an electric bike. To carry passengers by bike, the bicycle must be designed to accommodate more than one rider with a special child seat or a cargo bike. Per state law, electric bicycles are prohibited from riding on the sidewalk.
Security: Please take caution to properly lock your bike to a secure rack or an object. The City is experiencing an uptick in bike theft.
Helmets: Helmets are mandatory for youth under the age of 16, and recommended for everyone.
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