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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation
FHWA Highway Safety Programs

Chapter 3.3: Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, 4th Edition

Comment:
Bicycle Operation and Safety: Traffic Principles for Bicyclists: this section describes the basic principles of operating a bicycle in traffic, including bicyclists positioning on the road in a variety of different situations: bicyclists on a two-way road ordinarily ride on the right side of the roadway, obey stop and yield signs, and observe yielding rules, yield when changing lanes, overtake other vehicles on the left, lateral position on the roadway is determined by speed and usable width, approach intersections in the rightmost lane that provides for their movement, and have several options for turning left at an intersection.

Last Updated (Year): 2012

Year Produced: 2012

Abstract:

This guide provides information on how to accommodate bicycle travel and operations in most riding environments. It is intended to present sound guidelines that result in facilities that meet the needs of bicyclists and other highway users. Sufficient flexibility is permitted to encourage designs that are sensitive to local context and incorporate the needs of bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. However, in some sections of this guide, suggested minimum dimensions are provided. These are recommended only where further deviation from desirable values could increase crash frequency or severity.
This guide has been updated from the previous guide published in 1999. The fact that new guidance is presented herein does not imply that existing bicycle facilities are inadequate or unsafe, nor does it mandate the initiation of improvement projects. The intent of this document is to provide guidance to designers and planners by referencing a recommended range of design values and describing alternative design approaches.

For:Biking

The E's:Engineering

Ped Bike Activity:

  • Planning

Ped Bike Topic:

  • Safety
  • Bicycle Operations

Resource Type:

  • Guidance

Link to Content Source:

Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, 4th Edition