Cyclists are NOT Required to Ride on the Sidewalk, Use a Crosswalk, or Ride in a Bike Lane
Cyclists from time to time will ride on the sidewalk, however, state law does not require them to do so.
Every curb cut and driveway is considered an intersection when riding on a sidewalk. As a driver it is important to scan the intersections of driveways and curb cut outs at the sidewalk, as young children often use the sidewalk to safely ride their bicycles. Due to these safety hazards, the LMB does not generally recommend riding on sidewalks.
Michigan state law does not prohibit sidewalk riding, but does offer the following guidance:
- “An individual operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk, or a pedestrian crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian.
- An individual shall not operate a bicycle upon a sidewalk or a pedestrian crosswalk if that operation is prohibited by an official traffic control device.
- An individual lawfully operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk or a pedestrian crosswalk has all of the rights and responsibilities applicable to a pedestrian using that sidewalk or crosswalk.”
The Michigan law which covers sidewalk use can be found at: MCL 257.660c.
*Some local municipalities have stricter laws on this issue so when you are cycling in communities other than your hometown it is key to check out their individual laws. Normally, they are visually displayed for everyone to see.
Michigan law does not require cyclists to use the bike lane, even if one is present. In 2006, Section MCL257.660 of the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code was amended to remove the specific term ‘bicyclists’ from being required to use side paths, bike lanes, and trails (even when present).
