An accident cannot be predicted. But when a cyclist is injured because of driver error, it’s not an ‘accident,’ it’s a crash, because it is the predictable result of the driver’s error. After spending his entire legal career exclusively representing cyclists, Bob Mionske knows the difference all too well. Bob has represented cyclists from Portland, Gresham, Beaverton, Salem, Eugene, Medford, Ashland, Bend and from all over the state of Oregon.
It’s important to know your legal rights (and duties) when bicycling in Oregon. It is especially important after a bicycle accident (we call them bicycle “crashes” and explain why here).
For any questions about the State’s bike laws, or about your rights to the road, contact attorney Bob Mionske directly.
Right to the Road
- Oregon bicyclists generally have the same rights, and same duties, as drivers of motor vehicles.
Prohibitions
- Clinging to motor vehicles while biking is not permitted.
- Bicycles may only carry the number of persons for which it is designed, except an adult may carry a child in a backpack or sling.
- Sirens are not permitted on bicycles except for use by the police or fire department.
Helmets
- There is no statewide requirement for a helmet for adults, however, children under 16 years of age in Oregon must legally wear a helmet while riding in public.
Alcohol
- Oregon’s DUI statute does apply to bicyclists and the state’s DUII (driving under the influence of intoxicants) applies to people on bikes.
