Question 1

How much space must a Maryland driver leave when passing a bicyclist?

Accepted Answer

At least 3 feet, whether the bicyclist is in a bike lane, on the shoulder, or sharing the travel lane — Maryland requires leaving at least 3 feet of space when passing a bicyclist, treating them like any other slow-moving vehicle, whether they are in a bike lane, on the shoulder, or sharing the lane.

Question 2

When is a bicyclist in Maryland legally allowed to use the full travel lane, even while riding well below the speed of traffic?

Accepted Answer

Whenever the lane is too narrow for a motor vehicle to safely pass the bicycle while it remains in that lane — Maryland law lets a bicyclist use the full lane, even while traveling well below the speed of surrounding traffic, whenever the lane is too narrow for a motor vehicle to safely pass while the bike remains in it.

Question 3

What are Maryland's nighttime lighting and helmet requirements for bicycles and their riders?

Accepted Answer

A white headlight visible from 500 feet, a red rear reflector visible from 600 feet, and a helmet required under age 16 — A bicycle ridden at night must have a white headlight visible from 500 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 600 feet, and a helmet is required for anyone under 16 riding or being carried on a bike.

Question 4

On what roads may mopeds and motor scooters be ridden in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Any road with a posted maximum speed limit of 50 mph or less — Mopeds and motor scooters may be ridden on any Maryland road with a posted maximum speed limit of 50 mph or less, side-by-side or alone, on the road or the shoulder.

Question 5

What's the key difference between Maryland's Class 1/3 and Class 2 electric bicycles?

Accepted Answer

Class 1 and 3 only assist while the rider is pedaling; Class 2 can assist by throttle whether or not the rider is pedaling — Class 1 and Class 3 electric bicycles only provide motor assistance while the rider is pedaling, while a Class 2 bike can assist by throttle whether or not the rider is pedaling.

Maryland: Pedestrians, Bicyclists & Children Questions

1. How much space must a Maryland driver leave when passing a bicyclist?

2. When is a bicyclist in Maryland legally allowed to use the full travel lane, even while riding well below the speed of traffic?

3. What are Maryland's nighttime lighting and helmet requirements for bicycles and their riders?

4. On what roads may mopeds and motor scooters be ridden in Maryland?

5. What's the key difference between Maryland's Class 1/3 and Class 2 electric bicycles?

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