How should a bike lane be delineated from motor vehicle travel lanes?

• A. With a dashed yellow line
• B. With a 6" solid white line
• C. With a double yellow line
• D. With a 12" thick curb

Answer: (B)

Delineating a bike lane from motor vehicle travel lanes is important for both safety and clarity of roadway use. A 6-inch solid white line effectively signifies the boundary between bike lanes and motor vehicle lanes. This solid white line indicates that crossing into the bike lane should be done cautiously, as it is reserved specifically for bicycle traffic.

The use of a solid line discourages motorists from entering the bike lane except when necessary, such as when making a turn or passing a cyclist. This provides a clear visual cue to both cyclists and drivers, helping to reduce the likelihood of accidents and promote safer shared road usage.

Other options do not provide the same level of clarity or legal guidance. A dashed yellow line typically indicates two-way traffic lanes which are not appropriate for this scenario. A double yellow line is generally used to signify that passing is not permitted and is more common on wider roads with two lanes of traffic in opposite directions. A curb, while an effective physical barrier, may not be practical in all circumstances, particularly in urban settings where space is limited. Therefore, the 6-inch solid white line is the standard and recommended method for delineating bike lanes from motor vehicle lanes, ensuring safety and orderly use of the roadway.