New Oklahoma Laws Concerning Bicycles Take Effect, Impact Drivers

Hundreds of new laws are in effect in Oklahoma this month. Several of them center around bicyclists, and there are some changes drivers need to know if you see a bicycle on the road.

The group Bike Oklahoma says it was time to modernize laws involving people on bicycles.

One of the laws states allows cyclists to drive through a red light after coming to a complete stop if they aren't detected by a traffic light.

Also, a vehicle must fully move into the left lane, if possible, to pass someone on a bicycle. If there is only one lane, the vehicle may cross the solid yellow line to give at least 3 feet between the car and the bicycle.

"They should do that to provide a safer passing distance between the car and the bicycle rider," said Kenneth Graham.

Bike Oklahoma president Kenneth Graham said the group encouraged lawmakers to make these changes.

"We've lived in a car-centric society since World War II, as have other states and other nations, but a lot of people are choosing different ways to become active," said Graham. 

The group said other states have adopted similar laws.

To view the new laws, click here.