Bike lanes are designated portions of roadways that are reserved for cyclists. In general, vehicles should not drive in or enter bike lanes, but there are exceptions. Whether you are a cyclist or a motorist, it’s important that you know the laws surrounding bike lanes in order for them to be safe and effective.
When Can a Car Enter a Bike Lane?
In the state of Minnesota bike laws state that motorists are not allowed to drive, park, stop, stand, or load a vehicle in a bike lane, except when they are:
- Turning
- Entering or exiting the roadway
- Making room for oncoming cars
- Maneuvering to park where parking is permitted
- Or where posted signs permit it
How to Legally Enter a Bike Lane in a Motor Vehicle
In bike lanes, it is the cyclist who has the right-of-way. Motorists must yield to them and are required to signal before entering. They can only enter the bike lane if it is safe to do so. To reduce accidents and keep our roads safe for everyone, it’s important that both drivers and cyclists understand these rules and that they always prioritize safety in these situations.
Making a Right-Hand Turn from a Bike Lane
Minnesota law allows vehicles to enter a bike lane in order to make a right-hand turn. The driver must first signal, then enter the bike lane before making the turn and only when it is safe to do so.
Entering or Exiting a Roadway with a Bike Lane
When entering or leaving a roadway with a bike lane, drivers in Minnesota are permitted to briefly use the bike lane to merge with traffic or exit the road. They can only do so when safe and they must yield to cyclists in the bike lane.
Entering a Bike Lane to Make Room for Oncoming Traffic
Minneapolis as well as many Twin Cities suburbs are full of narrow roads. Minnesota law allows cars to pull slightly into bike lanes on narrow roads where space is limited in order to avoid a head-on collision or enable two vehicles to safely pass each other. Drivers must yield to any bicyclists already in the bike lane before moving into it.
Parking in a Bike Lane
Drivers can enter a bike lane to park in Minnesota only if it is a permitted parking area. They must yield to bikes and enter the lane only if it is safe to do so.
Crashes & Bike Lanes
While bike lanes are intended to improve cyclists’ safety, crashes still happen, especially in bike lanes where there isn’t a physical barrier. Accidents and crashes involving motor vehicles and cyclists in bike lanes are often caused by driver negligence, poor bike lane design, road hazards and inadequate space. It’s important to know your legal rights, especially if you’ve been involved in a crash.
If you have any questions about bike lane laws in Minnesota or if you’ve been involved in a bicycle crash, reach out to Brazil Sweeney Law right away. As an avid cyclist and experienced injury attorney, it is my mission to be a fierce advocate for cyclist rights. Contact us today to speak with our experienced bicycle accident lawyer for a free, no-obligation case review. There’s no fee unless we win.