Old 08-15-13, 12:43 PM
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FenderTL5
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Tennessee - yes, absolutely. http://www.tn.gov/safety/dlhandbook/DL_Manual2011.pdf
begins on page 104

excerpts below

On most roadways, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other roadway users..

They must ride as close to the right side of the road as practical, while avoiding road hazards that could cause them to
swerve into traffic..

If possible, give the cyclist the entire lane. When road conditions prevent this, pass the cyclist with extreme caution. Cyclists who are not on the extreme right hand side of the lane are not being careless, but are in fact attempting to account for traffic conditions and/or preparing to make a left turn..


Safety Tips for Drivers:
• When passing and overtaking a bicyclist proceeding in the same direction, do so slowly and leave
at least a distance between you and the bicycle of not less than 3 feet. It’s the law in Tennessee! Also be sure to maintain this clearance until safely past the overtaken bicycle.
• A driver should never attempt passing between a bicyclist and oncoming vehicles on a two-lane road. Slow down and allow vehicles to pass the rider safely.
• NEVER pass a bicycle if the street is too narrow or you would force the bicyclist too close to parked vehicles.
Wait until there is enough room to let you pass safely...


Lane Positions for Bicycles
Bicyclists are required to ride as far right in the lane as possible only when a car and a bicycle, side by side, can safely share the lane. Even then, there are certain times when a bicycle can take the full lane. A bicyclist should be allowed full use of the lane when:

• The rider is overtaking and passing another vehicle going in the same direction.
• If the lane is marked and signed for bicycle use only, drivers must NEVER use this lane as a turning lane, passing lane or for parking.
• There are unsafe conditions in the roadway, such as parked cares, moving vehicles or machinery, fixed obstacles, pedestrians, animals, potholes or debris.
• The lane is too narrow for both a care and a bicycle to safely share the lane. In this case it is safest to let the bicycle take the full lane.
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