It’s important to know the rules of the road when it comes to children and cycling. Both cycling adults with children and surrounding motorists need to be aware of the laws surrounding cyclists and child pedestrians to not only avoid traffic fines and accidents, but to keep themselves and others in their vicinity safe. After all, nobody wants to be responsible for another person’s death, most especially that of a child. If you aren’t sure about children and cycling laws while on the road, then don’t worry because we’ve got you covered. Read on, and we’ll present you with a list covering motorists, cyclists, and child pedestrians so that you are familiar with the laws and can keep focusing on safe driving when you are on the Minnesota roadways.

Rules of the Road for Cyclists

When it comes to cyclists, there are several rules of the road that need to be considered. Here are a few things that should be a priority if you are a bicyclist on the roadway:

• All Minnesota roads are open to bicyclists that are both children and adults, so motorists should be prepared to see them anywhere a car can drive. On occasion, bicyclists will encounter restricted areas. If a bicyclist cannot enter a certain area, it will be posted as a restricted area.
• Bicyclists are allowed to ride on the road and should ride on the road for safety reasons. When bicyclists are riding on the road, they are required to move with the flow of traffic, and never against it.
• When passing a bicyclist, motorists are supposed to give the bicyclist a three-foot clearance. However, know as a bicyclist you cannot always rely on the driver to do this, so be prepared in these types of situations.
• As far as traffic signs and signals are concerned, a bicyclist must follow those rules the same way as motorists. In fact, bicyclists are also required to signal before they turn and to stay safe when near motorists, bicyclists should ride in a predictable manner.
• When riding in low-lit conditions, bicyclists are required to utilize a headlight and rear reflectors. We suggest that you make yourself even more visible, however, and add a rear flashing light. Rear flashing lights help motorists see you when it’s dark outside.
• Children are required to ride bicycles accompanied by an adult.

Driving Near Bicyclists

• If you’re a driver and you know you are in an urban area, you need to drive at a safe speed and stay focused. Make sure that whenever you drive through an urban area, you look for bicyclists and check your blind spots.
• If you are driving and making a turn, remember to look twice for bicyclists before you make your turn. Remember that not yielding and giving the right of way is the leading cause of motorist-pedestrian deaths.
• If you are opening your door or parking on the side of the road as a driver, again look twice for bicyclists.
• Also, remember that motorists are required to treat every corner and intersection as a crosswalk. It doesn’t matter if it’s marked or unmarked. Motorists are also required to stop for all crossing pedestrians at all times.