Bike Lane Markings - Meaning

All you need to know about bike lane road markings: meaning, rules, what to do and more

bike-lane-markings
Type: pavement marking
Color: white; green
Shape: bike symbol, lines, arrows
Location: usually on the right side of the street, between the travel lane and the curb, road edge, or parking lane.

What do bike lane markings mean?

Bike lane markings on the pavement, including lines, symbols, and words, designate a specific area of the roadway for the exclusive use of bicyclists. These markings inform all road users — motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians — about the lane's reserved purpose.
Bike lanes are typically located on the right side of the street, next to vehicle traffic.

Bike Lane Markings - Quick Guide

Typical bike lane pavement markings include:

• White Lines: Bike lanes are usually marked by a single solid white line, which may change to a dashed line near intersections.
• Bike Symbol and “Bike Lane” Text: A white cyclist symbol and the words “BIKE LANE” are painted on the pavement within the bicycle lane
• Arrows: White arrow markings provide directional guidance for cyclists
• Chevron and Diagonal Lines: White chevrons or diagonal lines may outline buffered bike lanes, providing greater separation from traffic or parked cars and enhancing cyclist safety.
• Colored Pavement: Brightly painted pavement, often green, increases bike lane visibility. Green pavement for bike lanes is particularly common at intersections or other areas where potential conflicts between cyclists and motorists are more likely.

“Bike Lane” signs may also be present alongside the bikeway markings to further highlight the presence of a bicycle lane.

TIP: Studying for your DMV test? Check out our list of road signs and their meanings

Bike Lane - What To Do

It's important to remember that driving in a bicycle lane is illegal except in specific situations, such as entering or exiting the road, making a turn, or parking where allowed.

If you need to enter a bike lane, follow these guidelines:

• look carefully for cyclists coming from both directions before proceeding
• always check your blind spots
• yield to any bicycles in the lane
• maintain a safe speed and exercise caution to ensure cyclists’ safety
• never stop your vehicle in a bike lane
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