Bike Lane Violation Accidents: When Vehicles Invade Your Space

Bike lanes exist to protect cyclists, but vehicles illegally entering them cause countless injuries. Understanding bike lane laws helps establish liability in these accidents.

Common Bike Lane Violations

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Parking in Bike Lanes Delivery trucks, Ubers, and private vehicles illegally parking force cyclists into traffic.

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Driving in Bike Lanes Vehicles using bike lanes to pass traffic or make turns.

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Crossing Without Yielding Vehicles crossing bike lanes without yielding to cyclists.

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Opening Doors Into Bike Lanes Occupants of vehicles parked adjacent to bike lanes opening doors without looking.

Types of Bike Lanes

Class I: Bike Path Completely separate from vehicle traffic.

Class II: Bike Lane Painted lane on roadway, often with buffer.

Class III: Bike Route Shared lane with sharrows or signs.

Protected Bike Lane Physical barrier separates bikes from traffic.

Legal Protections

Most states and cities have laws that:

• Prohibit parking in bike lanes

• Prohibit driving in bike lanes except to turn

• Require yielding when crossing bike lanes

• Set fines for violations

Documenting Bike Lane Violations

1. Photo of the violation 2. License plate number 3. Time and location 4. Names of witnesses 5. Police report if collision occurred