Cyclists often enjoy riding two abreast, or side-by-side, rather than riding in single file. Some who are riding together may do this for social reasons, as it makes it easier to talk and spend time together. Others may do it for safety-related reasons, feeling that it makes them more visible to the traffic around them.
As a general rule, California law does not prohibit riding two abreast, so it is legal. This can sometimes be controversial, as motorists and even some police officers may believe that it is not permitted. But there is no law stopping cyclists from riding two abreast, as long as they are doing so responsibly and following traffic rules.
Do they need to ride as far to the right as possible?
Yes, the law does state that vehicles traveling below the speed of other traffic should try to stay as far to the right side of the road as possible.
But this is still satisfied if cyclists are riding two abreast. The cyclist on the right should be as close to the right-hand edge of the lane as they can be, and the cyclist on the left cannot be any closer because the other bike is already there, occupying that space. Thus, both cyclists are still as far to the right as possible.
Why do motorists disagree?
The biggest reason why motorists do not like when cyclists ride side-by-side is because it can make it harder for them to pass. They may want to travel at a significantly faster rate of speed, and they do not want to slow down and wait to pass safely. This can sometimes lead to dangerous or aggressive driving behavior, and may even result in an accident.
For cyclists who have been injured due to the actions of a negligent driver, it is important to know how to seek appropriate financial compensation. That driver may be liable for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, lost future earnings and much more.
