Many Kentucky residents enjoy the region’s spring weather on two wheels. If you bicycle for fun or to get around town, you should know the local traffic laws to protect yourself from serious auto accident injury.
Review these state laws and safety tips before you take your first seasonal bike ride.
Equipping your bike
Your bicycle must have front lights and a red rear light that others can see from at least 500 feet away if you ride at night or during inclement weather. All bikes must also have a red rear reflector.
You cannot ride a bike that does not have a seat or working brakes, and you must keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times. You cannot carry a passenger unless you have a separate seat for that person, such as a child carrier or tandem seat.
Sharing the road with others
Generally, you must follow the same Kentucky traffic laws that apply to motor vehicles. However, on your bike, you may travel on the shoulder of the road or highway and ride next to another cyclist in the same lane. The state requires bikers to use a designated lane wherever possible, but you do not have to use an unsafe, littered or blocked bike lane.
When sharing the roadway with drivers or pedestrians, you must make an audible sound when passing. Kentucky does not require a bell or whistle, however. The state prohibits cyclists from attaching themselves to or grabbing other vehicles.
By keeping these rules in mind, you can reduce your risk of a serious car accident injury while on your bike.
