What right do bicycle operators have on the roadway?

Bicycle operators have the right to use a complete traffic lane. This is important because it acknowledges bicycles as legitimate vehicles on the roadway. When riders take up a full lane, they can ensure their safety by being more visible and avoiding hazardous situations, such as cars trying to squeeze past them in narrow spaces. This right helps to promote safe sharing of the road with motor vehicles, as it establishes that cyclists are entitled to the same rights and responsibilities as any other vehicle on the road.

Riding on the sidewalk may not be safe or legal in many areas, and yielding to cars would contradict the principle of equal rights on the road for all vehicle types. Similarly, riding after dark is often allowed as long as cyclists adhere to proper safety measures, such as using lights and reflectors.