When Can Cars Move Into Bike Lanes?

In Appleton, bike lanes run alongside major roads like College Avenue and connect to local trails. They offer cyclists a safer space to ride, separate from vehicle traffic and sidewalks. But if you’re a motorist in Wisconsin, it’s important to know when, if ever, it’s legal to drive in a bike lane.

Misusing a bike lane isn’t just a safety risk; it could also make you liable in a crash.

At Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers, our Appleton car accident lawyers can help you understand your responsibilities on the road and what happens when drivers and cyclists collide.

Legal Exceptions for Entering Bike Lanes

Under Wisconsin law, vehicles are generally prohibited from driving in bike lanes. These designated lanes are reserved for cyclists to increase safety and reduce conflict with cars.

However, there are limited exceptions where entering a bike lane is permitted, as long as it’s done with caution:

• Turning at an Intersection: You may briefly enter a bike lane when preparing to make a right turn, but you must signal and yield to any cyclists first.
• Entering or Exiting a Driveway or Alley: If your driveway crosses a bike lane, you are allowed to drive through it carefully, watching for cyclists.
• Pulling Into or Out of a Parking Space: On-street parking requires crossing a bike lane in some cities. Drivers must check for cyclists before maneuvering.

The law requires drivers to yield to any bicyclist in the lane in all these situations. Failing to do so can seriously injure cyclists and result in fines or civil liability.

How to Share the Road Safely With Cyclists

Safety should come first, even when driving legally near or through a bike lane. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles in Wisconsin. According to Wisconsin law, motorists must maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle.

Here’s how to stay safe and respectful:

• Signal Early and Clearly: Use your turn signal before merging into or turning across a bike lane. This gives cyclists time to react and prevents surprises.
• Slow Down When Approaching Cyclists: Treat them like slow-moving vehicles. Reducing your speed gives everyone more time to react safely.
• Check Your Blind Spots: Bikes are smaller and can be easily hidden from your mirrors. A quick glance over your shoulder can prevent a life-changing crash.
• Yield Before Crossing the Lane: If a cyclist is in the bike lane and you need to turn or pull over, you must yield to the rider.
• Avoid the Right Hook: This happens when a driver turns right across a bike’s path without checking for riders. Signal early and check mirrors and blind spots before turning.

Don’t Forget About “Dooring”

“Dooring” refers to opening a car door into the path of a cyclist, which can cause severe injuries or even death. To avoid dooring:

• Check your side mirrors and blind spots before opening your door.
• Encourage passengers to use the “Dutch Reach,” in which they use their far hand to open the door, naturally forcing their bodies to look behind them.
• Leave the vehicle quickly and close it once you’re out; don’t leave the door ajar.

You can be held liable for a cyclist’s injuries if you open a door in front of them, even if your car is parked or stationary.

Who’s Liable in a Bike Lane Accident?

If a motorist illegally enters a bike lane and causes an accident, they may be liable for the damages. However, liability isn’t always one-sided. There are scenarios where a cyclist could share fault, such as:

• Riding the wrong way in a bike lane
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Suddenly swerving into traffic without signaling

Under Wisconsin’s comparative negligence laws, a cyclist can still recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. Motorists who violate traffic laws or fail to yield are typically assigned a greater share of fault.

Injured in a Car-Bicycle Accident? Our Appleton Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

Bike lane rules exist for the same reason all other traffic laws do: to keep drivers, cyclists, and other road users safe. If you were hurt because a driver improperly entered a bike lane or failed to follow the rules of the road, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

At Brian Hodgkiss Injury Lawyers, our team understands the unique legal challenges that come with car-bicycle collisions. Our Appleton car accident lawyers can investigate your case, prove liability, and fight for maximum compensation.

Contact our offices today for a free case review. Let us help you take the next step toward justice, accountability, and the compensation you need to move forward with peace of mind.