Customer Safety

Hawaii’s Department of Transportation Rules of the Road for Bicyclists

Bicyclists have most of the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Cyclists must obey traffic laws and be courteous to all road users. Ride on the Right. When on a road, if bicyclists are traveling slower than cars, the bicyclists should ride as near to the right hand edge of the road as practicable. On one-way streets, it is legal to ride near the left curb. Ride in the Middle. Bicyclists may ride away from the far right side only under the following conditions: when preparing for a left turn; where necessary to avoid road-side hazards; where the traffic lane is too narrow for a bicyclist and a motor vehicle to travel safely side by side; when the bicyclist is travelling at the normal speed of traffic. Follow Lane Markings. Do not turn left from the right lane. Don’t go straight through in lanes marked right-turn-only or left-turn-only. Obey Traffic Signs and Signals. Bicyclists who are caught running red lights and violating other traffic laws are subject to the same penalties as drivers of motor vehicles. Ride Single File. Bicyclists must ride single file on a road. On bicycle lanes and paths, riding two abreast is permitted when the lane or path is wide enough. Do Not Cling to Moving Vehicles. This illegal practice is very dangerous. Also, a bicycle should not be used to carry more persons at a time than the number for which it was designed and equipped. Use Lights at Night. Use a strong headlight and red rear reflector at night (30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise). For more protection, wear light colored clothes and reflective tape. Never Ride Against Traffic. Motorists and other bicyclists aren’t looking for bicyclists on the wrong side of the road. Riding on the wrong side increases the changes and severity of collisions with cars. It is illegal to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk in a business district and wherever signs prohibit bicycle riding on sidewalks. It is dangerous to ride on sidewalks even in residential areas. What to do in an Accident: Always carry identification and change for the telephone in case of emergencies. If you are involved in an accident, the following steps should be taken: STOP and remain as close to the accident scene as practical or safe, except to notify police. ASSIST or search for assistance for anyone who may be injured. NOTIFY the police (dial 911). Honolulu Police (808) 529-3111. Follow their instructions. CALL Hawaiian Style Rentals. (866) 916-6733. GATHER INFORMATION, as much as possible. Information should include a description of the individuals and/or vehicles involved, including license plate numbers. Information such as name and address should be exchanged with any persons involved, including witnesses. MAHALO for keeping the roads safe for all.