Bicycling has become a popular and efficient method of travel, especially in Conway, but many cyclists don’t realize that they are just as susceptible to a citation for a traffic violation as a motorist. When considering using a bicycle as a mode of transportation, you should realize that you must also obey the same rules of the road that motor vehicles must follow.  For example, cyclist are required to stop at stop signs and red lights, yield to other motorist at an intersection and safely use hand signals to display your intent to stop or turn.  

Arkansas Statute 27-49-111 specifically states that “…every person riding a bicycle shall have all the rights and all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle, except those provisions of this act which by their nature can have no applicability.”  This also means you must ride the bicycle on the right side of the roadway, the same as a motorist.

There are also equipment regulations for bicycles to consider.  Another Arkansas Law states that you must have a working lamp on the front of the bicycle “exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet”.  It further requires a red lamp displayed on the rear of the bicycle also visible from a distance of 500 feet.  In lieu of the rear red lamp, the law will allow a red reflector instead, provided it is still visible from 500 feet.   The more reflectors you have on your bicycle or clothing, the more likely you will be seen by motorist at night.

Not all cities have the same rules regarding the operation of a bicycle inside the city limit.  While some major Arkansas cities require a bell or other pedestrian warning device, Conway’s Municipal Code only addresses the prohibited act of the riding of bicycles on sidewalks in the business district.  The business district restrictions are for the C-1, Central Business Zone, which is primarily found in the downtown area.

There is another law you must remember when you are the motorist overtaking a cyclist on the roadway.  The motorist must give the cyclist at least three feet distance when passing the cyclist and should not again drive on the right side until safely clear of the overtaken bicycle.

Some important safety tips to consider when cycling:

• Helmets are not required by Arkansas law, but their use is strongly encouraged, especially for children. 
• Try to limit your extra baggage, such as wearing a heavy backpack or placing heavy cargo in a basket.   This extra weight can restrict your ability to control a bicycle and balance when the unpredictable happens. 
• Don’t ride in traffic until you feel comfortable negotiating in it. Practice in your neighborhood first until you can safely maneuver in high traffic.
• Stay alert and be seen.  Wear bright colored clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night.
• Inspect your bicycle.  Make sure the brakes work properly and the tires are in good shape. You wouldn’t drive a car if it had a gear or brake failure, so you shouldn’t drive a bicycle if it’s not safe to ride.
• Take and/or have your children participate a local bicycle safety class.
• Lock it up.  Prevent your bicycle from being stolen by using a quality lock.  Remember to record the serial number of your bicycle and put it in a safe place.  If the bicycle does get stolen, the police can enhance the recovery of the bicycle provided they have the serial number.