By Wentworth

S.B. No. 238

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to the safe operation of bicycles on roadways.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Section 551.103, Transportation Code, is amended by amending Subsection (c) and adding Subsection (e) to read as follows:

(c) Persons operating bicycles on a roadway shall ride single file [may ride two abreast. Persons riding two abreast on a laned roadway shall ride in a single lane. Persons riding two abreast may not impede the normal and reasonable flow of traffic on the roadway. Persons may not ride more than two abreast unless they are riding on a part of a roadway set aside for the exclusive operation of bicycles].

(e) Persons operating bicycles in a group of three or more bicyclists may not ride on a farm-to-market or ranch-to-market road that is without improved shoulders.

SECTION 2. Section 551.104, Transportation Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (d) to read as follows:

(a) A person may not operate a bicycle unless the bicycle is equipped with:

(1) a brake capable of making a braked wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement; and

(2) a slow-moving-vehicle emblem, as defined by Section 547.001, that conforms to the requirements of Section 547.703(a).

(d) Subsection (a)(2) does not apply to a person operating a bicycle on a path set aside for the exclusive operation of bicycles.

SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2001.