Question: I have seen numerous times where a bicyclist will not stop at a stop sign, if they are sharing the road with automobiles. I have seen a couple of close incidents where the bicyclist is almost hit as well. Are bicyclists under the same rules if they are sharing the road with automobiles?
Answer: There was a state law change back in August of 2023. It states, “a bicycle operator who approaches a stop sign must slow to a speed that allows for stopping before entering the intersection or the nearest crosswalk. If there is not a vehicle in the vicinity, the operator may make a turn or proceed through the intersection without stopping.” Nothing in this subdivision changed the right-of-way requirements. It is important to note that bicyclists must still stop at intersections controlled by a red light, a peace officer, or a person authorized to control traffic.
Essentially, the bicyclist can yield or perform a “rolling stop” at a stop sign if they don’t violate anyone else’s right of way. When approaching a stop sign, the bicyclist should be traveling slow enough to stop before the crosswalk if necessary. However, after yielding, if there is not a pedestrian crossing in front of them or other traffic approaching near enough to constitute an immediate hazard, they may continue without making a full stop.
You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester, Minn. 55901-5848. Or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.