Can You Get A Speeding Ticket On A Bicycle?

When we hear the word ‘speeding ticket,’ we instantly think of a passenger car, truck, or any other motor vehicle.

Many people fail to align the word bicycle with the word speeding ticket as many of us are unaware that even bicycles get a speeding ticket.

In this guide, we will talk about bicycle speeding tickets.

Can A Cyclist Get A Speeding Ticket?

Yes, a cyclist can get a speeding ticket as it is possible to exceed the speed limit on your bicycle. It largely depends on the state’s law.

I have to admit that I may have been speeding on my bike a few times, but I have not got a ticket.

Traffic rules vary slightly from state to state in the United States. In some states, bicycles only have to follow a few traffic rules. But in a few states, bicycles have to follow the same traffic rules as other motor vehicles. This law of traffic also includes speed limits for bicycles.

Although most cyclists do not exceed the speed limits, you must keep the speed limit in mind while cycling in construction zones, hilly areas, and school zones. Crossing the speed limit can result in a ticket.

Related reading: Illinois Bicycle Laws

The first case we know of is a bicycle speeding ticket that came to light in 2013 in the state of Seattle. In school zones, the speed limit is usually somewhere in between 15 and 25 miles per hour. It is quite hard for a bicycle to reach this speed as cyclists are usually used to a much higher speed. But rules are rules, and not following these rules will result in a speeding ticket or a warning.

Many places are located either on the top or the bottom of a hill. Many people prefer to ride bikes in these areas to save gas and time. Cyclists, along with other vehicle riders, often exceed the speed limit while coming down steep hills, and this gets recorded at the speed trap, which is often situated at the bottom of the hill.

Many vehicles, including cyclists, end up with speeding tickets as they go down the hill at a very fast speed.

However, in many states, you can reduce the amount of fine you pay for a speeding ticket by completing a bicycle safety course online. And if you pay the reduced fee within the time, then the speeding ticket will be dismissed even before it goes on the record.

Is There A Specific Speed Limit For Bicycles?

A common question we get is whether there is a speed limit for bicycles or not. The answer is no, and there is no specific speed limit for a bicycle. A bicycle must follow the traffic rules that each and every vehicle on the road follows. These traffic rules also include the speed limit.

Suppose the speed limit on a road is 30 miles per hour. Every vehicle running on that road must follow this limit, and failing to do so will result in a speeding ticket.

However, as we mentioned earlier, traffic rules are not the same in each and every state of the United States. While bicycle speeding ticket is considered serious offense in a few states, other states do not pay much attention to it.

Related reading: Where To Buy Cycle Parts In California – Burbank And Los Angeles Area

What are the consequences of getting a speeding ticket on a bicycle?

The consequences of getting a speeding ticket on a bicycle can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the offense.

Generally, cyclists can be fined for speeding, just like motorists, and may also be required to attend a bicycle safety class to reduce the fine. In some cases, cyclists may be able to challenge the ticket in court, especially if they do not have a speedometer or if the radar gun used by the officer could not accurately measure their speed.

However, if a cyclist is involved in a collision while speeding, they may face additional consequences, such as injury or damage to property, and could potentially be held responsible for any resulting harm.

Bottom Line

Each and every vehicle on the road must abide by traffic rules and state law. In many states, the law regarding speeding tickets applies to bicycles and other vehicles. Knowing the traffic rules is essential before getting your bicycle out on the road is critical.

Bicycles often do not come with a speedometer, and it may be hard to keep track of the speed you are pushing it hard. But this excuse is not likely to get you out of a speeding ticket in front of a policeman or judge. That is why I use a cycling computer or my smarfone to control my riding speed.

Always know the speed limit and your speed and avoid the speeding ticket!