Bicycles are a popular form of transportation and entertainment in Rolla. Whether you ride to commute, for exercise, or enjoyment, it is crucial to prioritize your safety on the roadways. Traffic laws for bicyclists in Rolla exist to improve visibility and promote safe road-sharing between cyclists and drivers.
Learning about state and county bicycle laws reduces your risk of injury and ensures you follow state and county regulations. If you have questions regarding Rolla’s bicycle laws or your legal options after an accident, contact the dedicated bicycle accident attorneys at AW Smith Law.
Rolla cyclists are required to follow state and local bicycle laws when riding a bike on sidewalks, trails, and roadways. Bicycle laws in Rolla revolve around bicycle equipment and operation.
Missouri does not have statewide bicycle helmet laws. However, many municipalities have local rules for helmet use, often applying to riders under the age of 18. Before riding, it is vital to check the city and county-wide laws regarding helmet use.
Missouri requires bicycles to have basic equipment for improving visibility and enhancing safety. Bicycles must have the following equipment:
Cyclists are responsible for learning equipment laws and ensuring their bike is roadworthy before riding.
Bicycle operation laws in Missouri prohibit riding on the sidewalk within business districts. In areas where sidewalk riding is permitted, cyclists must yield right-of-way to pedestrians and provide an audible signal, such as a verbal warning, horn, or bell, before passing. Bicyclists are allowed on all Missouri roadways except highways and are granted the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. Bicyclists must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as is safe to do so.
Penalties for violating bicycle laws in Rolla range between $5 and $25 for cyclists over the age of 16, while riders under 17 may have their bicycle impounded for up to five days for a violation.
Bicycle laws work to ensure the safety of cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists on Rolla sidewalks and roadways. Failing to follow the law or take reasonable safety precautions can cause self-injury and harm to others and limit a rider’s ability to recover compensation following a crash.
Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence system, allowing individuals to recover damages after an accident even if they are partially at fault. In such cases, a rider’s compensation is reduced based on their percentage of fault. Riders who disobey bicycle laws are more likely to be found partially at fault for causing an accident, reducing the amount of compensation they receive, even in cases involving catastrophic injuries.
Following traffic laws for bicyclists in Rolla is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of an accident while cycling. However, collisions between bicycles and other vehicles still occur and often result in serious injuries. If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation for injuries and other damages. The injury lawyers at AW Smith Law are standing by to listen to the details of your case and help you understand your legal options. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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