I Wonder: What are the laws for bikes drivers?

In light of this 3rd biking accident, KTVB should take this opportunity to educate the public on the rules of the road for bikers . It would be very beneficial to find out what the bikers are supposed to be doing and the proper way for cars to share the road.

- Crissie M. via e-mail

BOISE - With three deadly accidents involving cars and bikes in recent weeks -- many of you have written to ask just what the rules of the road are.

The bottom line: bicyclists and drivers are treated the same -- both must follow the same laws.

But as a practical matter... People on bikes have to exercise extra caution, since they stand to lose the most in a collision.

Drivers of cars are required to yield to bikes, but much of the burden for safety lies with bicyclists

Boise Police spokesperson Lynn Hightower stresses that safety for cyclists is a team effort.

"The responsibility for motorists is essentially to know and follow the rules of the road, and bicyclists are treated - when they are on the road - as another motor vehicle," Hightower said.

But Hightower says that above all else -- drivers should avoid driving while distracted.

"You should not drive, ride, pedal distracted -- or carelessly. If you are going to do that, get off the road because there is no place for distracted driving or riding or careless driving or riding - someone's going to get hurt," Hightower said.

Background:

Here some other specifics according to Idaho state law:

- Bicyclists cannot ride with more than two riders side by side

- If a bicycle rider takes to the sidewalk, they must yield to people on foot, and give an audible signal before passing.

- Bikes that are on the streets at night are required to have a light that's visible from at least 500 feet away so that drivers can see them.

Also, a note about stop signs and lights. Bike riders must yield at stop signs, but do not have to come to a full stop, according to Idaho law. They must stop at lights - but can cross an intersection on red if there is no traffic.

The best thing to do might be to take a minute and read all the laws for yourself. . (PDF).

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