Bicyclists are Drivers - Is a Bicyle a Vehicle?

In some State traffic codes, bicycles are included in the legal definition of a “vehicle,” either explicitly or implicitly. For example, the UVC definition reads: “§ 1-215 Vehicle Defined. Every device in, upon or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, excepting devices used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.” This definition includes bicycles, even though they are not specifically mentioned, because it does not exempt devices moved by human power.

However, whether or not a “bicycle” is legally a “vehicle” or a “device” under State law is not important for traffic enforcement, because in all States bicyclists are drivers, regardless of the status of the bicycle.

During this course, the word “driver” will be used to refer to both bicyclist and motorist. The term “vehicle” will be used to refer to both bicycle and motor vehicle.