Bike lanes in California are specifically set aside for cyclists. This separates them from motor vehicles nearby. Bike lanes can significantly reduce accident rates, and they help to keep people safe.
Under California law, it is explicitly stated that no one should drive a motor vehicle in a bike lane.
They may be able to cross the bike lane in certain situations. For instance, someone who is entering or leaving the street may cross a bike lane as they pull into a driveway or turn into a parking lot. Someone who is making a right-hand turn can usually cross the bike lane within 200 feet of the intersection, as they prepare for that turn.
What about parking?
You may sometimes see people parked in a bike lane. This is typically illegal. It puts cyclists in danger because they could strike the parked car or may be forced to swerve into traffic to avoid it.
That said, drivers are sometimes allowed to cross a bike lane to park in a legal area on the other side. For instance, there could be a bike lane on the side of the street and then parallel parking spaces against the curb. Drivers still do need to check for cyclists and ensure that they merge through the lane safely, but they can do so to reach those parallel parking spaces.
Seeking compensation after an accident
Have you been injured while cycling, perhaps because you were struck by a negligent driver who was improperly using the bike lane? If so, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation.
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