Bicyclists have full rights and responsibilities on the roadway and are subject to the regulations governing the operation of a motor vehicle.

North Carolina traffic laws require bicyclists to:

• Ride on the right in the same direction as other traffic

• Obey all traffic signs and signals
   

• Use hand signals to communicate intended movements
   

• Equip their bicycles with a front lamp visible from 300 feet and a rear reflector that is visible from a distance of 200 feet when riding at night.

In addition, the Child Bicycle Safety Act of 2001 requires that:

• All bicycle operators under 16 years of age must wear a bicycle helmet on public roads, public paths and public rights-of-way
   

• All child passengers under 40 pounds or 40 inches must be seated and secured in a child seat or a bicycle trailer.

Bicycling on an Interstate or fully controlled, limited access highways, such as beltlines, is prohibited. 

There is no law that requires bicyclists to ride single file, nor is there a law that gives cyclists the right to ride two or more abreast.  It is important to ride responsibly and courteously, so that cars may pass safely.
 

There is no law that prohibits wearing headphones when riding a bicycle; however, it is not recommended. It is important to use all your senses to ensure your safety when riding in traffic.