Biking in Chicago is both a popular means of transportation and a recreational activity. With more than 200 miles of bike lanes and paths, the city is a growing hub for cyclists. However, with the increasing number of bicyclists on the streets, understanding and adhering to the city’s bicycle laws is essential for ensuring safety, protecting yourself legally, and fostering a bike-friendly environment.
General Bicycle Laws In Chicago
Chicago’s bicycle laws are designed to ensure that cyclists and motorists coexist safely. According to the Chicago Municipal Code and the Illinois Vehicle Code, bicycles are legally considered vehicles. This means that cyclists must follow the same rules as motor vehicle drivers, and they have the same rights on the road. Some of the most important general bicycle laws in Chicago include:
Obey Traffic Signs And Signals: Cyclists are required to obey all traffic signs, signals, and road markings. This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, yielding to pedestrians, and following the speed limit.
Ride On The Right Side Of The Road: Bicyclists must ride as close as possible to the right-hand side of the roadway, except when overtaking another vehicle, turning left, or avoiding hazards.
Use Of Bike Lanes: In areas where bike lanes are provided, cyclists should use them whenever practicable. However, cyclists are not required to ride in bike lanes if it is unsafe, such as when the lane is blocked or in disrepair.
Passing On The Left: Cyclists should always pass other vehicles or bicycles on the left and must return to the right-hand side of the road as soon as it is safe.
Prohibition Of Bicycling On Sidewalks: In Chicago, it is illegal for cyclists aged 12 and older to ride on the sidewalk, except on streets where the posted speed limit exceeds 40 mph, or where specifically designated bike routes include sidewalk cycling. Bicyclists are encouraged to dismount and walk their bikes when on sidewalks in heavily pedestrianized areas.
Lights And Reflectors: Cyclists must equip their bicycles with a front white headlight and a rear red reflector when riding at night. A rear red light is also strongly recommended.
Use Of Hand Signals: Cyclists are required to use hand signals when turning or stopping. To signal a left turn, extend the left hand and arm horizontally. For a right turn, extend the left arm upward, or the right arm horizontally. To signal a stop or decrease in speed, extend the left hand and arm downward.
Helmet Laws
While wearing a helmet is not mandated by law in Chicago for adult cyclists, it is strongly recommended by safety experts and city officials. However, for children under 16, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) advises that they should always wear a helmet while riding. In suburban areas around Chicago, certain municipalities may have local ordinances requiring helmet use for younger riders.
Safe Passing And “Dooring” Laws
Chicago has specific provisions to address two of the most common hazards cyclists face: close passing and “dooring.” As mentioned by the bicycle accident attorneys in Chicago, “dooring” is one of the leading causes of injury among cyclists in busy urban areas.
Safe Passing Law: Motorists are required to maintain a minimum of three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist on the road. This distance ensures the safety of cyclists and reduces the likelihood of accidents due to close proximity.
Dooring: Dooring occurs when a vehicle occupant opens a door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. This is one of the most dangerous and common causes of bicycle accidents in urban environments. Chicago’s dooring law mandates that vehicle occupants must check for cyclists and ensure that it is safe before opening the door into traffic. Violations of this law can result in fines for the driver or passenger responsible for the dooring incident.
Biking On Public Transit
Chicago’s public transit system, including the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains, is generally bike-friendly. Cyclists can bring their bikes onto CTA trains during non-peak hours, typically on weekdays between 4:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. and after 9:00 p.m., as well as all day on weekends and holidays. Buses are equipped with front-mounted bike racks that can accommodate two bicycles at a time, and there is no additional charge for using these racks.
Bicycle Parking And Theft Prevention
Chicago has made efforts to accommodate cyclists with ample bike parking. The city has installed thousands of bike racks and corrals in various public spaces, including business districts, parks, and near transit stations.
To prevent theft, cyclists are encouraged to use a high-quality U-lock or chain to secure both the frame and the wheels to an immovable object. Registering your bicycle with the Chicago Police Department is also an effective way to help recover a stolen bike, as it can provide law enforcement with necessary information about your bike’s make, model, and serial number.
Enforcement And Penalties
Violating bicycle laws in Chicago can lead to fines and penalties. Common violations, such as running red lights or failing to use a light at night, may result in tickets or fines. Additionally, if a cyclist is involved in an accident and found to be at fault for not adhering to traffic laws, they may be held liable for damages or injuries caused to others.
Conversely, motorists who fail to follow laws that protect cyclists, such as the three-foot passing rule or dooring laws, can face stiff fines, and in cases involving injury or death, may be subject to criminal charges.
Advocacy And Resources For Cyclists
Several organizations and initiatives in Chicago are dedicated to promoting bicyclist safety and rights. The Active Transportation Alliance is one such group that advocates for better biking infrastructure, safety, and policies. Chicago also hosts events like Bike to Work Week to encourage cycling and increase awareness of cycling laws and safety.
For anyone looking to learn more about cycling laws, safety practices, or available resources, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) provides an array of educational materials and guidelines.
