Maryland State Laws Pertaining to Bicycling 

General Overview of Maryland Cycling Laws

General

Bicyclists traveling on roadways have all the general rights and duties of drivers of vehicles.

Where to Ride

• Ride with the flow of traffic as closely as practicable to the right side of roadway.
• Full lane use allowed when traveling at the normal speed of traffic, operating on a one-way street, passing, preparing for a turn, avoiding hazards, traveling in a lane too narrow to share and avoiding a mandatory turn lane.

Passing Cars

Exercise due care when passing.

Dooring

A person may not open the door of any motor vehicle with intent to strike, injure or interfere with any bicyclist.

Bicycling Two Abreast

Allowed when it does not impede traffic. May not ride more than two abreast.

Mandatory Use of Bike Lanes and Paths

Use of bike lanes required when available except when passing, preparing for a turn or avoiding hazards. No required use of separated paths.

Cycling on Sidewalks

• Yield right of way to pedestrians.
• Allowed where permitted by local ordinance (such as in Montgomery County).

Audible Warning Devices

Bells allowed (not required), sirens and whistles prohibited.

Helmets

Required for any operator or passenger under 16 years of age.

Lights at Night

Front white light and rear red reflector (or rear red light) required when dark.