What are the traffic rules for bicycles crossing intersections?
2 Answers
The traffic rules for bicycles crossing intersections are: 1. When the red light is on at the intersection, bicycles cannot go straight or turn left. If the right-turn arrow light is red, right turns are not allowed. If the circular light is red and there is no 'No Right Turn' sign nearby, right turns are permitted; 2. When the green light is on at the intersection, proceed in the indicated direction; 3. If the traffic lights at the intersection are damaged or the directions they indicate are contradictory, follow the instructions of the traffic police if they are present; 4. When the yellow light is on, if you have already crossed the stop line, you may continue to proceed; 5. Pedestrians on the crosswalk at traffic light intersections have the right of way. Even if right turns are allowed, you must yield to pedestrians.
I find that crossing intersections on a bicycle requires extra caution, especially in big cities with heavy traffic. The most crucial traffic rule is to stop at red lights and wait until it turns green before proceeding—never try to rush through. Additionally, at pedestrian crossings, it’s safer to dismount and walk the bike across to avoid collisions with pedestrians. When I ride shared bikes, I always wear a helmet, even if it’s not mandatory, as it protects my head in case of sudden accidents. Remember to use hand signals when turning to indicate your direction to drivers and pedestrians, helping prevent misunderstandings and collisions. Keep your speed moderate—don’t ride too fast—and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Overall, following these rules isn’t just for your own safety but also a way to respect everyone on the road.