KIRKSVILLE, MO -- For today’s Facebook Story of The Day, you wanted to know about the laws regarding bicycle usage on state highways.
In Missouri, the law states that bicycle riders are granted all rights and are subject to all traffic regulations as motorists on state highways.
The law includes that bicyclists must ride on the right side of the roadway and obeys all traffic signals and signs.
Riders must also use hand signals when turning left or right.
Sgt. Brent Bernhardt of The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it’s always best to take safety precautions like using reflectors, wearing light-colored clothing, and wearing that all-important bicycle helmet.
“Typically in bicycle accidents, we see a lot of head injuries.” Bernhardt said. “The reason for that is the higher center of gravity. Typically you'll fall over on the upper portion of your body. That bicycle helmet just prevents any type of brain injury that could occur.”
Another good safety tip for bicyclists is to ride your bike during the daytime hours so that you will be more visible to motorists.
Fines for violating the state bicycle law can range up to $25.
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