Question: I have seen numerous times where a bicyclist will not stop at a stop sign, if they are sharing the road with automobiles. I have seen a couple of close incidents where the bicyclist is almost hit as well. Are bicyclists under the same rules if they are sharing the road with automobiles?
Answer: There was a state law change back in August of 2023. It states, “a bicycle operator who approaches a stop sign must slow to a speed that allows for stopping before entering the intersection or the nearest crosswalk. If there is not a vehicle in the vicinity, the operator may make a turn or proceed through the intersection without stopping.” Nothing in this subdivision changed the right-of-way requirements. It is important to note that bicyclists must still stop at intersections controlled by a red light, a peace officer, or a person authorized to control traffic.
Essentially, the bicyclist can yield or perform a “rolling stop” at a stop sign if they don’t violate anyone else’s right of way. When approaching a stop sign, the bicyclist should be traveling slow enough to stop before the crosswalk if necessary. However, after yielding, if there is not a pedestrian crossing in front of them or other traffic approaching near enough to constitute an immediate hazard, they may continue without making a full stop.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 565012205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at [email protected])
