Can you honk at bicyclists and joggers in Idaho? Only under rare circumstances. Here’s why
Idaho is one of a handful of states where bicyclists can use roadways with as much freedom as any other motor vehicle. Bicyclists can ride on freeways and pass other bicycles and cars, and they must treat a red light as a stop sign.
But, as a driver, does that mean you can treat bicyclists like any other vehicles on the road? In particular, can you honk at bicyclists, or even joggers, if you’re behind them or see them doing something you don’t like?
Can you honk at a cyclist or jogger in Idaho?
No law says you can or cannot honk at cyclists and joggers, but there are several reasons why it might be a bad idea.
Chief among those is an Idaho statute that addresses honking. The law states that drivers may honk their horns only for safety reasons, such as to give an audible warning of imminent danger.
Otherwise, using a horn is not permitted in Idaho, including honking at cyclists or joggers whom you may find annoying and in the way. It’s typically not a good idea, even if you’re simply honking as a friendly warning that you’re passing.
For cyclists, in particular, having horns honked at them can cause safety issues. Honking can startle cyclists, especially if up close, causing them to tense their necks and shoulders, making it harder to control their bicycles.
A bicyclist may also turn around to see who is honking, to check whether it’s a friendly or unfriendly honk. That means they can’t see where they are riding for a brief moment, potentially riding into potholes, traffic signs or other impediments.
Safe practices for cyclists
For the most part, joggers will keep to the sidewalk and follow all the typical rules for pedestrians such as obeying stop signs, crosswalks and other traffic signs.
But cyclists are often more in harm’s way when riding on the road. The city of Boise lists tips for riders to safely get around the city:
Predictability
Use hand signals to indicate if you’re preparing to turn right or left.
Never assume what other vehicles or people on the road are going to do.
Expect varied road conditions.
Where to ride
Always ride with the flow of traffic and remain on the right side of the road as practicably possible.
Ride where other drivers can see you and stay out of blind spots.
Ride at least 3 feet away from parking cars. Cars that pass you should also give you 3 feet of space.
Other tips
Pedestrians have the right-of-way on the Boise Greenbelt.
When on the Greenbelt, cyclists must signal their intent to pass with a bell.
The rules for E-bikes are the same as the rules for cyclists.
Bike riders should pass cars on the left, allowing the vehicle to turn to the right through the bike lane safely.
This story was originally published September 13, 2023 at 12:37 PM.
