Hollidaysburg

Pennsylvania

Documents

Bicycle Rules and Regulations

View original document →

Pennsylvania Vehicle Code: Pedalcycle and Motorcycle Regulations

This document outlines specific traffic laws in Pennsylvania regarding the operation of pedalcycles (bicycles) and motorcycles. The regulations cover equipment, riding rules, penalties, and special provisions for different road types.

Pedalcycle (Bicycle) Rules

General Applicability and Penalties

  • Rights and Duties: Riders on pedalcycles have the same rights and duties as drivers of vehicles, except for provisions that cannot apply by nature.
  • Penalties: Violations of this subchapter are summary offenses punishable by a fine of $10.

Equipment Requirements

  • Lamps and Reflectors: Between sunset and sunrise, pedalcycles must have:
    • A front lamp emitting white light visible from 500 feet.
    • A red reflector facing rear visible from 500 feet.
    • Amber reflectors on each side.
    • Operators may supplement these with flashing lights or LEDs for visibility.
  • Audible Signals: A device audible from 100 feet is permitted, but sirens are prohibited.
  • Brakes: Must be capable of stopping the cycle within 15 feet from an initial speed of 15 mph on dry, level pavement.

Riding and Operation

  • Seating: Operators must ride on a permanent, regular seat.
  • Passengers: No more persons than the cycle is designed for may be carried, except an adult may transport a child in a securely attached carrier or trailer.
  • Roadway Rules:
    • Riders must obey standard road rules.
    • On shoulders, ride in the same direction as traffic and follow turning rules (Section 3331).
    • If traveling slower than traffic, use the right-hand side unless unsafe.
    • On one-way roads with two or more lanes, riders may use the left-hand curb/edge if practicable.
    • Riding Abreast: Generally limited to two abreast, except on paths set aside exclusively for pedalcycles.
  • Sidewalks:
    • Riders must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing.
    • Riding on sidewalks in business districts is prohibited unless permitted by traffic control devices or if a dedicated lane exists.
  • Parking:
    • Sidewalks: Allowed unless prohibited; must not impede pedestrian traffic.
    • Roadways: Can be parked at any angle to the curb where allowed, or abreast of other pedalcycles. Must not obstruct legally parked motor vehicles.

Helmets (Section 3510)

  • Requirement: Persons under 12 years of age must wear a helmet meeting national safety standards (ANSI, ASTM, Snell) when operating or riding as a passenger.
  • Labeling: Helmets sold must be labeled to certify they meet these standards.
  • Exemptions:
    • Religious exemption: A child under 12 may be exempt if a family church authority provides a statement that wearing a helmet violates their religious tenets.
  • Penalties: Violations are punishable by a fine not exceeding $25. Parents/guardians are jointly liable for violations by children under their control.
  • Civil Immunity: Lenders of helmets are immune from civil liability for damages resulting from the use of the helmet, except in cases of intentional harm or gross negligence.

Freeway Prohibitions (Section 3511)

  • General Rule: Riding pedalcycles on freeways is prohibited.
  • Exceptions for Processions/Events: Permits may be issued if:
    • The event is of national, state, or regional interest.
    • An engineering/traffic study confirms safety.
  • Exceptions for State-Designated Freeways: Permits may be issued if:
    • The rider is 18+ or accompanied by someone 18+.
    • A written request citing lack of alternate routes is submitted.
    • The department determines no reasonable alternate route exists and the freeway is safe.
    • A notice is published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
  • Local Authority Action: Local governments can authorize use via ordinance or commission decision.
  • Shoulder Use: If authorized, pedalcycles must use the shoulder whenever practicable.

Motorcycle Rules (Subchapter B)

Applicability (Section 3521)

  • Operators of motorcycles are granted all rights and subject to all duties applicable to drivers of other vehicles, except for special provisions in this subchapter or those that cannot apply by nature.

Table of Contents for Motorcycle Subchapter:

  • 3521: Applicability of traffic laws.
  • 3522: Riding on motorcycles.
  • 3523: Operating on roadways laned for traffic.
  • 3524: Footrests and handhold.
  • 3525: Protective equipment for riders.
  • 3526: Lighted lamp requirements.
← Back to Documents