[Warren Kiefer]

I would like to pose a question for discussion. I need to set the stage for my comments. I have already discussed the facts regarding the double no-pass yellow lines with a sheriff's deputy who states that a driver is never to cross those double yellow lines. Now to my point; suppose you have a street, double center yellow lines, no golf cart lane. Lets suppose we have two bicyclists riding side-by-side in your direction. You need to be aware that traffic laws state a vehicle must clear a bicyclist by no less than four (4) feet.. The problem, there is insufficient room between the double yellow lines and four feet from the two bicycle riders. So, what is the auto driver to do?? Remember, those yellow lines on the Villages streets are continuous end to end. If you don't like to use bicycles, suppose it is a golf cart that you would like to pass....

[mulligan]

IMHO, logic would dictate that if you could do so safely, you could cross the lines to clear the bicycle rider. That makes sense to me, because the rider would seem to be vulnerable. Did you pose this scenario to the deputy ?

[BarryRX]

Originally Posted by mulligan

IMHO, logic would dictate that if you could do so safely, you could cross the lines to clear the bicycle rider. That makes sense to me, because the rider would seem to be vulnerable. Did you pose this scenario to the deputy ?

I believe the law states that bike riders must ride single file whenever possible. In your scenario they are breaking the law. However, whether that gives you the right to break the law (cross the double yellow line to pass them) is doubtful. A deputy observing this should ticket the bike riders AND ticket you for crossing the double yellow line.

[Warren Kiefer]

Originally Posted by mulligan

IMHO, logic would dictate that if you could do so safely, you could cross the lines to clear the bicycle rider. That makes sense to me, because the rider would seem to be vulnerable. Did you pose this scenario to the deputy ?

Yes !!!!
The deputy said it is against the traffic laws to cross the yellow lines under any circumstances and you could be given a ticket for doing so. I agree that if there is no oncoming traffic it only makes sense to pass. Afterall those double yuellow lines are not a concrete wall.

[gomoho]

So I guess those riding side by side on bikes are as big a pain in the arse as the people allowing their dogs to poop on lawns. What a bunch of inconsiderate people living in TV. Good thing it is so awesome here are things might get out of hand.

[raynitsche]

I would believe that the law would mean you can't cross the double yellow to pass a car. Should your left tire cross to avoid a hazard or such a bike, golf cart, a police car that has someone stopped etc you would OK with 99.9% of the police on the road. I'm speaking for NY State V&T Law.

[ijusluvit]

I'd slow to their speed and lightly tap the horn.

I'd continue dong that until they formed single file and I could safely pass.

If I were not obnoxious about it I don't think it would take too many little beeps.

Then I'd make a sincere (full-hand) wave to thank them for sharing the road.


(Boy, that would freak them out)

[raynitsche]

I should add that it ( passing ) was done safely as to oncoming traffic.

[memason]

I don't think any LEO is gonna tell you it's OK to cross a double yellow line. After all, it is the law and he is sworn to uphold the law.

However, in the situation you describe, I would certainly cross the yellow lines to clear the bikers. If [and I doubt it would actually happen] I were to get a ticket for crossing the lines, I would just go to court and hope the judge had a bit more common sense than the officer.

Just my thoughts on the subject . . .

[Mack184]

Just don't do it in front of a cop and you'll never have to test out the theory!

[Indydealmaker]

Originally Posted by memason

I don't think any LEO is gonna tell you it's OK to cross a double yellow line. After all, it is the law and he is sworn to uphold the law.

However, in the situation you describe, I would certainly cross the yellow lines to clear the bikers. If [and I doubt it would actually happen] I were to get a ticket for crossing the lines, I would just go to court and hope the judge had a bit more common sense than the officer.

Just my thoughts on the subject . . .

Florida law says that moving to the left of center in a no passing zone is allowed if such a move is necessary to avoid an object. I wonder if a bike and the 3-foot clearance would constitute such an object?

[OpusX1]

Take it a step farther. A utility truck is stopped working on wires or gas lines. It is not a busy road so no flagmen. Every time I will proced with much caution crossing double yellow lines, same thing goes with a farm tractor/backhoe. Sometimes common sense is acceptable. I have been driving this way for 48 years and have never recieved a moving traffic violation.

[ugotme]

Originally Posted by mulligan

IMHO, logic would dictate that if you could do so safely, you could cross the lines to clear the bicycle rider. That makes sense to me, because the rider would seem to be vulnerable. Did you pose this scenario to the deputy ?

[NIPAS K-9]

Originally Posted by raynitsche

I would believe that the law would mean you can't cross the double yellow to pass a car. Should your left tire cross to avoid a hazard or such a bike, golf cart, a police car that has someone stopped etc you would OK with 99.9% of the police on the road. I'm speaking for NY State V&T Law.

Yes you are absolutely right, speaking from 32 years of law enfocement. just use common sense..............Your honor i ran over the person who fell off the bike because , i could't go around to avoid him, it is against the law to cross the double yellow line .............

[ilovetv]

I absolutely dread the thought of ever hitting a bicyclist. It's a nightmarish thought.

So why is it that so many bicyclists ride as if they do not dread the thought of getting hit by a truck or car?

Why do most bicyclists here insist on riding in the car lanes in 30-mph traffic, when they could be riding in maximum 20-mph golf cart traffic (diamond lanes) or on multi-modal trails designed specifically for them....for their safety??

It is hazardous!