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B I K E S E N S E — T H E W I S C O N S I N B I C Y C L E O P E R A T O R ’ S M A N U A L
Some jurisdictions allow riding on the sidewalk,
but several studies have shown that bicyclists face a far greater
risk of collision on the sidewalk than on the roadway.
On multi-use paths, bicyclists must yield to slower
users and give an audible warning when passing.
Headphones
Because headphones can obstruct your hearing,
they are not recommended while riding a bicycle
and are illegal in some jurisdictions. Check your
local ordinances.
Bicycling restrictions
Bicycles may not be ridden on roads where signs
indicate bicycling is prohibited. Bicycling is per-
mitted on all other roadways.
Riding on sidewalks
Local jurisdictions may or may not permit bicycles
on sidewalks, but bicyclists must yield to pedestri-
ans and give an audible warning when passing. At
intersections and other sidewalk crossings, bicy-
clists have the same rights and duties as pedestri-
ans.
being used at night. Bike trailers should also have
a bike flag attached to the trailer to improve visi-
bility since they are lower to the ground. All chil-
dren should wear an approved bicycle helmet and
should be secured by a seat belt system when in a
trailer or in a bicycle child seat. Prior to taking
your child out in any type of carrier you may wish
to practice turning, stopping, hill climbing and
other maneuvers with a sand bag or other weight
to simulate the effect of the additional load.
Riding two on a bicycle
Riding double is only permitted when carrying a
child in an approved carrier or when riding a tan-
dem or trailer-bicycle.
Several studies have proven that bicyclists on side-
walks face a far greater collision risk than bicy-
clists on the roadway. The main danger points are
driveways and street crossings where sidewalk
bicyclists surprise motorists and pedestrians by
appearing from unexpected directions. Bicyclists
on sidewalks traveling in the opposite direction
from traffic are especially at risk.
Riding on multi-use paths
Except for street crossings and driveways, paths
are safe from car/bicycle collisions, and you don’t
have to endure the noise and pollution. However,
bicyclists must yield to pedestrians and slower
path users in general. Other users, such as jog-
gers, skaters, children, pets, and pedestrians may
act unpredictably, and a bicyclist maintaining a
high speed can be a danger on such a path.
Therefore, bicyclists who want to travel quickly
should opt to use roadways rather than heavily
used paths. Remember that you are sharing the
path with others and need to respect their rights.
Reduce your speed where appropriate and give an
audible warning before passing other path users.
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