People who use bicycles in Tennessee have certain rights as well as responsibilities when they ride their bikes. It’s important cyclists know and understand what the bicycle laws require and how they protect them. If a cyclist is in an accident on the road, they will have to prove it did not result from their negligence. This is made easier when a bicycle rider can show they were in compliance with the law. Many of the laws are found in Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A)
Rules of the Road
T.C.A Section 55-8 defines the rules of the road. When a bicycle is on the road, it is classified as a vehicle. This means a cyclist must follow all the rules of the road but also has the same rights as vehicles. A bicycle rider can pass other vehicles but must do so on the left. The only exception is if the vehicle about to be passed is making a left-hand turn. When a road is too narrow to be shared with a vehicle, the cyclist must move to the right when they can do so safely. Cyclists must signal for turns by using their arms. A left arm straight out indicates a left turn. The right arm straight out indicates a right turn. When a cyclist put their arm downward, this is to signal they are coming to a stop. Cyclists can ride two abreast down a road as long as they do not interfere with the normal flow of traffic.
Helmet Laws
According to T.C.A Section 55-52-105 a helmet is not required for a cyclist in Tennessee. The exception is for people under the age of sixteen; they are required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. Parents cannot knowingly permit any of their children under this age to ride without a helmet. In order to be in full compliance with all applicable laws, a person should check the local ordinances where they will be bicycling. They need to see if there is a local helmet law they must follow.
Bicycles On Sidewalks
There is no law on the state level that prohibits bicycles from being ridden on sidewalks. There are certain local municipalities that place restrictions on bicycles being used on sidewalks. Some may forbid bike riding in their business districts. Other places require a bicyclist to give an audible signal when they pass a person walking on the sidewalk. If a municipality does have restrictions on where bicycles can be ridden on sidewalks, they will provide signs about it that are clearly visible. Some places require a cyclist to dismount and walk their bike through certain areas.
Bicycling Under The Influence
There is no state law in Tennessee that directly addresses riding a bicycle while intoxicated. A person still cannot legally ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or any other legal or illegal substance. Should a person be caught riding a bicycle under the influence of a substance or alcohol, they could face criminal charges. They could be charged with a number of things including reckless endangerment as well as being intoxicated in public and more.
