Bicycle Accidents and Injuries - Part 2 in a Series

Jon Lewis

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 360

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In Back to the Future, Michael J. Fox rides around on his skateboard and grabs motor vehicles to help himself get around quicker. Is that legal? Not in Alabama.

Section 32-5A-262 of the Code of Alabama states, "No person riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates, sled or toy vehicle shall attach the same or himself to any vehicle upon a roadway." What's the purpose of this law? Safety of course. It protects those who might choose to engage in these dangerous acts, and it protects the public at large by preventing potential accidents which might result from engaging in such an act.

In addition to the above, cyclists have the same right to be on the road as you do. Aside from these rules, what about riding side by side? Is that legal? The answer is yes. Section 32-5A-263 provides, "Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles." So, it's okay to ride side by side, but not more than two.

In our next series, we will talk about carrying items while riding and bike equipment. Stay tuned.