Bicycle & Pedestrian Laws

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North Carolina has several laws – the most applicable below – that apply to both pedestrians and cyclists. They, however, do not include ordinances relevant to local governments.

Except where referencing motor vehicles only, the N.C. General Statutes define bicycles as vehicles that are subject to state traffic laws. For additional laws, consult the N.C. General Statutes.

Table Caption

N.C. Statute	Description
​G.S. 20	Defines bicycles as vehicles that are subject to vehicle traffic laws
G.S. 20-129(e)​	Lamps on bicycles
G.S. 20-138.1​	Impaired driving (bicycling)
​G.S. 20-146	Vehicle and bicycle operation on roadways
​G.S. 20-149	Passing distances
​G.S. 20-150e	Passing in a no-passing zone
G.S. 20-154	Bicyclist signaling with hand
​G.S. 20-171.1	Definitions
G.S. 20-171.2​	Bicycle racing
​G.S. 20-171.8	Child Bicycle Safety Act
​G.S. 20-172	Pedestrians and traffic signals
​G.S. 20-173	Pedestrian right of way at crosswalks
​G.S. 20-174	Pedestrians at unmarked crossings
​G.S. 14-280.1	Trespassing on railroad right of way

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Last updated Nov. 16, 2022