Are Bicyclists Considered Pedestrians in Michigan?

Michigan doesn't lead the country as a bicycle-friendly state. That's not a slam on our hometowns. We simply haven't gotten to it, yet.

Whether you've got kids riding bikes all over a small town like Chesaning or you're a pro-cyclist competing in the annual Largest Off-Road Gravel Bike Race in the United States, right here in Michigan, with a $30,000 prize...

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Pedestrians and Cyclists are not necessarily the same thing, by law.

Does a Bicyclist have to obey the same traffic laws as a motorist?

Cyclists do have to mind the same traffic laws as auto drivers, for the most part.

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Here are a few examples of what cyclists must do:

Signal to turn or stop.
Ride with the direction of traffic.
Stay as far right as possible on the roadway, unless on a one-way street. Then, it's okay to stay as far left as possible, too.
Not ride more than two abreast.
Not split lanes
Must use lights for night riding.

Is it Legal to Straddle a Crosswalk in MI?

Sometimes bicyclists are pedestrians.

Riding a bike on a sidewalk is allowed in Michigan. Bike riders must audibly signal to any walker they plan to pass. Ever hear anyone say, "on your left?" Again, while it's allowed, it's not recommended to ride on sidewalks.

Perhaps most importantly, bicyclists are pedestrians if "lawfully operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk or a pedestrian crosswalk. They'll have all of the same rights/responsibilities as the pedestrian/walker.

You might wonder if cyclists are allowed to use a cell phone/text while riding -- only if the cell phone is in hands-free mode. That's actually been the case longer than the upcoming new Michigan law making it illegal for drivers to hold their phones/text while driving.

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E-bike riders also have specific laws they need to follow. There's even more information available for riders at the League of Michigan Bicyclists website.

These Are the Most Dangerous Stretches of I-75 in the State of Michigan

It probably comes as no surprise to you that the 10 most dangerous stretches of I-75 in Michigan are all in the Metro Detroit area.

Let's take a look.

Here Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan

Unfortunately, the Motor City isn't the only dangerous place in Michigan. Of course, Detroit makes the list, compiled by Road Snacks, but there are nine other cities and townships throughout our state which have exceptionally high crime rates.