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Bike Law 101

Get the facts about riding in the city

Miss Sally Emerson and Miss Jean Williams question Park Policeman Arthur Dolan as to why he arrested them, 1933

Although bicycling in the city is usually free, easy, and culturally gracious, there are sometimes moments when the system doesn't roll your way and things get unpleasant, even nasty. Cyclists must deal with careless unyielding drivers, the threat of bike theft, and undereducated authorities and institutions. Whether it's a crash with a car door or a traffic ticket for a blown stop sign, it's good to know your rights under the law.

As a bicycle rider, you have the right to move around San Francisco safely and use the streets like any other vehicle. The California Vehicle Code (CVC 21200) says: Every person riding a bicycle upon a [roadway] has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle ...

Bicyclists' Legal Guide

Crashes happen too often. Until we eliminate the possibility of conflict between thousand pound vehicles and the humble bicycle, you need to know your rights. Check this guide for help if you've been in a crash with a motor vehicle (or pedestrian or pothole, too).

California Vehicle Code (CVC)
on Operation of a Bicycle

Next time someone tells you you don't have a right to take the lane, read them your rights! (you might also grab a handful of our Know Your Rights flyer, it's the flip side of our popular Give and Get Respect flyer).

Traffic Ticket FAQ

Some answers to frequently asked questions about traffic citations and bicycles, including advice on how to avoid getting a ticket and what to do if you get a ticket anyhow.

SF Police Department's Position on Bike Incidents/Rights

Download this PDF of a Departmental Bulletin issued in 2009 by Chief Heather Fong on the proper response and reporting of bicycle crashes by police staff.

Police bicycle training video

The SF Police Department has produced a training video for their curriculum, explaining bicyclists' legal rights and illustrating some common San Francisco cycling situations and the appropriate police attention they require. We share it far and wide — it's got useful information for everyone on the road, not just police officers — take a look and share the link.

Bike Lane Rules

Sick of nitwit drivers treating your favorite bike lane like a long skinny parking lot? California state law is a bit ambiguous, but fortunately San Francisco traffic code is definite — get the straight dope on bike lane law here.

Bike-friendly lawyers in San Francisco

If you've reviewed our bike law information and you're still stumped, consult with an attorney. We keep a short list of bike-friendly lawyers, please let us know your experience with them.

Sidewalks are for Peds

Yes, it's against the law in San Francisco to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk, and anyhow it's usually a bad idea, for strollers, seniors, disabled folks, even cyclists themselves — Sidewalks are for Peds, please walk your bike if you come off the street.

Bike Parking Code

Every parking garage, every city owned or leased building, and all new or renovated commercial and residential buildings in the city are REQUIRED to have bike parking. Learn more about bike parking requirements , and if your building isn't up to code (and there are many) contact us.

Theft Prevention

Having your bike stolen sucks enormously — here's some good advice on foiling bike thieves.

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