State Bike Laws

Cycling is a healthy, fun and safe activity. However, it is not without danger. The following information emphasizes 13 legal areas that can minimize risks and reduce collisions between bicycles and cars (and other transportation modes). These points are not comprehensive just covering state-wide laws

If you need detailed information on state bicycle policies and initiatives, please refer to the bicycle-friendly state program.

All the laws listed here are part of the research project prepared in the fall of 2012 and may be subject to change. Please contact ken @ bikeleague.org to obtain the latest information.

Of course, bicycle commuting is causing some trouble. Most of it is due to dealing with bad drivers and incomplete infrastructure. The best way to stay safe is to learn about your city / state bike law, drive according to rules, and always understand your surroundings. Do not use headphones when riding a bicycle, please do not use text. You need to be wary of pedestrians, other riders and drivers who may not pay enough attention to the two rounds on the road. For more information on safe bicycle commuting, please see the wonderful video of Grist.

While buying a bicycle, few people buy helmets for their children, and I am always surprised. Even for children who balance the bicycle, helmets are indispensable to ensure safety, as well as many state laws require helmets. We often hear about the California Children's Helmet Act, but in fact 22 states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws to protect our most vulnerable riders. At the end of this article, I outline the state summary on these laws. I think the helmet for children method is a good thing. When I saw other kids riding a bicycle without a helmet (the general situation I have), I pointed out when I was two years old. He is very happy today wearing a helmet, but I'm worried that in the not long distant future the time will come when he will decide not to wear a helmet to get along with his friends. The helmet method will help prevent this companion pressure (at least for toddlers)

The law regulating off-road vehicles varies from state to state. In Pennsylvania, dirt bikes and ATV do not require helmets or goggles. Riders at public land must be at least 10 years old and proof of rider education is required if the age is under 16 years old. Private land riders do not have a minimum age and riders do not need a driver's license. The vehicle needs to be registered, but it is not checked. Only in the state of Connecticut and Iowa state, the minimum age of a business operator is 12 years old. In some states outside the state of Pennsylvania, there are only age limits for public passengers. The size of the engine is limited by the age of the three state operators. However, most people do not have the minimum age requirement to drive off-road vehicles and many do not need helmet or eye protection.