Take the Lane: How to Cycle Safely in Traffic 🚲
Cycle Savvy with Sam continues! Last week, we answered the question: Is a bike a vehicle? This week, we’re diving into one of the most important skills for staying safe on the road: riding predictably and confidently in traffic, including the concept cyclists call “taking the lane.”
Why Do Cyclists Take the Lane?
From a driver’s seat of a car, it might be frustrating to see a cyclist, or a group of cyclists, riding in the center of the lane, taking up a lane of traffic. But, believe it or not, this is often the safest option. If a lane is too narrow to share, riding in the center makes the cyclist more visible and prevents unsafe close passes. Cyclists riding on the side of the lane, hugging the curb, encourages drivers to squeeze by, which puts everyone at risk. 😱
Think of it this way: when a cyclist is in the center of the lane, they’re not trying to be difficult! They’re protecting themselves, being visible to drivers and signaling that the lane must be passed with a full, safe passing maneuver, just like you would when passing a slow-moving car or tractor. 🚜💨
I know it can be annoying for drivers when you come up behind a cyclist riding right in the center of the lane. You might think we’re being stubborn or slowing you down on purpose. However, we’re just trying to be safe.
West Virginia law actually allows cyclists to “take the lane” when the road is too narrow to share, when turning left, or when hazards (like potholes, parked cars or debris) make it unsafe to be as close to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.🚧 Riding in the middle of the lane isn’t about being difficult, it’s about staying alive. I’m just a girl on a bike, after all! 🚴🏼♀️
A sign to remind everyone that people on bikes can use the full lane.
The Law Behind It
West Virginia Code §17C-11-5 lays out the rules for riding in traffic:
(a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride in the lane marked for bicycle use or, if no lane is marked for bicycle use, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
(1) When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction;
(2) When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway; or
(3) When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition or potential conflict, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, turn lane, or substandard-width lane, which makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge or within a bicycle lane. For the purposes of this subsection, a "substandard-width lane" is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way roadway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
(c) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.
In short: riding in the center of the lane is legal and sometimes the safest option, especially on narrow streets or when avoiding hazards. ✨
Tips for Riding Predictably
Ride straight, avoid weaving: sudden moves confuse drivers. 🚴♂️
Signal your turns: hand signals are the way you can communicate where you’re going! 🫱
Be seen and heard: use lights, reflective gear, and bells when needed. 🚨🔔
Predictable riding keeps you safer and communicates clearly to drivers, pedestrians and fellow cyclists. The law just reinforces that confidence is key to riding safely on these streets!
So when you pass me when I’m taking the lane with an unfriendly honk (or decide to yell at me out your window), please know that I notice you, and I’m sure glad you notice me. I get to make it home safely and you got to keep driving without an accident on your hands.
We’re all just trying to get where we’re going. A little patience goes a long way. Pass politely if you can - this girl on a bike really appreciates it! ❤️
💭 Ponder while you Pedal: If you drive in Charleston or elsewhere in West Virginia, how do you feel when you see cyclists “taking the lane”? What would make those interactions feel safer or more predictable for you? 🚲
As always, you can add to the conversation on Facebook or send me a message with your thoughts on this or any other topics you're interested in me covering.
⚠️ Disclaimer: I’m not a bike safety expert, just a girl with a community cycling club and blog sharing what I’m learning! Always check the full West Virginia Code and other trusted resources. Ride safe, ride smart, and see you next Sunday for Cycle Savvy with Sam.
