City of Columbus

Motorists and the Law

Please click on the links below to show relevant State (Ohio Revised Code ORC) and City laws (City of Columbus Code CoCC). The citation and text of the laws will be displayed when you click.

• Definition of a bicycle.  Under State of Ohio law and Columbus City Code, bicycles have the same right-of-way rights as motor vehicles. 

  ORC 4501.01 (A), (B), (K)  
  4501.01 Motor vehicles definitions.

  As used in this chapter and Chapters 4503., 4505., 4507., 4509., 4510., 4511., 4513., 4515., and 4517. of the Revised Code, and in the penal laws, except as otherwise provided:

  (A) “Vehicles” means everything on wheels or runners, including motorized bicycles, but does not mean electric personal assistive mobility devices, vehicles that are operated exclusively on rails or tracks or from overhead electric trolley wires, and vehicles that belong to any police department, municipal fire department, or volunteer fire department, or that are used by such a department in the discharge of its functions.

  (B) “Motor vehicle” means any vehicle, including mobile homes and recreational vehicles, that is propelled or drawn by power other than muscular power or power collected from overhead electric trolley wires. “Motor vehicle” does not include utility vehicles as defined in division (VV) of this section, motorized bicycles, road rollers, traction engines, power shovels, power cranes, and other equipment used in construction work and not designed for or employed in general highway transportation, well-drilling machinery, ditch-digging machinery, farm machinery, and trailers that are designed and used exclusively to transport a boat between a place of storage and a marina, or in and around a marina, when drawn or towed on a public road or highway for a distance of no more than ten miles and at a speed of twenty-five miles per hour or less.

    (K) “Bicycle” means every device, other than a tricycle that is designed solely for use as a play vehicle by a child, that is propelled solely by human power upon which any person may ride, and that has two tandem wheels, or one wheel in front and two wheels in the rear, or two wheels in the front and one wheel in the rear, any of which is more than fourteen inches in diameter.

• Definitions of “vehicle,” “bicycle” and children’s non-motorized vehicles 

  ORC 4511.01 Traffic laws - operation of motor vehicles definitions.
  
  As used in this chapter and in Chapter 4513. of the Revised Code:

  
  (A) “Vehicle” means every device, including a motorized bicycle, in, upon, or by which any person or property may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except that “vehicle” does not include any motorized wheelchair, any electric personal assistive mobility device, any device that is moved by power collected from overhead electric trolley wires or that is used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks, or any device, other than a bicycle, that is moved by human power.
  (G) "Bicycle" means every device, other than a device that is designed solely for use as a play vehicle by a child, that is propelled solely by human power upon which a person may ride, and that has two or more wheels, any of which is more than fourteen inches in diameter.

  CoCC 2101.04 Bicycle.
  "Bicycle" means every device, other than a device designed solely for use as a play vehicle by a child, propelled solely by human power upon which a person may ride having either two (2) or more wheels, any of which is more than fourteen (14) inches in diameter.

  Definition of a child’s bicycle or other non-motorized vehicle 
  CoCC 2173.015  Definitions.

  
  (A)   For purposes of this Chapter:

  (2)   "Children's non-motorized vehicle" means any child's wheeled device, including a bicycle that is under thirty (30) inches of handlebar height and operating at less than five (5) miles per hour, that is operator-propelled by human power in, upon, or by which any person may be transported upon a street, highway, sidewalk, or public or private property used for vehicular or pedestrian travel or parking; except that "non-motorized vehicle" does not include any wheelchair, any personal assistive mobility device, or any device that is used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks. "Non-motorized vehicle" would include, but is not limited to, children's bicycles with or without training wheels, roller skates, in-line skates, rollerblades, skateboards, unicycles, tricycles, quad cycles, and scooters.

• How City of Columbus Code applies to bicycles 

  COCC 2173.01  Code application to bicycles, children's non-motorized vehicles.

  (A)   The provisions of this Traffic Code that are applicable to bicycles apply whenever a bicycle is operated upon any street or highway or upon any shared-use path within the public right-of-way as defined in section 910.01 (P) of the Columbus City Code or easement adjacent thereto or however specifically provided for in Chapter 2173.

  (B)   The provisions of this Traffic Code, except those that by their nature are inapplicable shall apply to bicycles except those which by their nature are not applicable, and any person operating a bicycle on a street shall comply with all operational rules and traffic control devices applicable to vehicular traffic.

  (C)   Except as provided in division (E) of this section, a bicycle operator who violates any section of the Traffic Code that is applicable to bicycles may be issued a ticket, citation, or summons by a law enforcement officer for the violation in the same manner as the operator of a motor vehicle would be cited for the same violation. A person who commits any such violation while operating a bicycle shall not have any points assessed against the person's driver's license, commercial driver's license, temporary instruction permit, or probationary license under Chapter 4510 of the Ohio Revised Code.

  (D)   Except as provided in division (E) of this section, in the case of a violation of any section of the Traffic Code by a bicycle operator or by a motor vehicle operator when the Trier of fact finds that the violation by the motor vehicle operator endangered the lives of bicycle riders at the time of the violation, the court, notwithstanding any provision of the Revised Code or the Columbus City Code to the contrary, may require the bicycle operator or motor vehicle operator to take and successfully complete a bicycling skills course approved by the court in addition to or in lieu of any penalty otherwise prescribed for that violation.

  (E)   Divisions (C) and (D) of this section do not apply to violations of Section 2133.01 of the Columbus City Traffic Code.

• Columbus bikeways include shared-use paths, bike lanes and bike routes 

  City of Columbus Code 2101.041  Bikeway.

  "Bikeway" means a facility that explicitly provides for bicycle travel. A bikeway may vary from a completely separated facility to simple signed streets as follows:

  (a)   "Shared-use path" (Class I Bikeway) means a bikeway outside the traveled way and physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier and either within the street or highway right-of-way or within an independent alignment. A shared-use path also may be used by pedestrians, including skaters, joggers, users of manual and motorized wheelchairs, and other authorized motorized and non-motorized users.

  (b)   "Bike lane" (Class II Bikeway) is a marked lane contiguous to a travel lane within a roadway for the exclusive or semi-exclusive operation of bicycles in the same direction as the adjacent travel lane. The bike lane is physically separated from motor vehicle traffic by painted lines, pavement coloration, curbing, parked vehicles or other barriers.

  (c)   "Bike route" (Class III Bikeway) utilizes existing streets and roads. No separation of motor vehicle and bicycle traffic is provided as only signs are present to indicate the course of the bike route.

• By law, bicycles belong on the road
  Bicycles, as motor vehicles, must obey traffic laws
  Bicyclists should ride to the right side of the right lane
  Bicyclists should ride single file or no more than two abreast
  Circumstances for when a bicyclist may move to the center of the lane 

  ORC 4511.25 Lanes of travel upon roadways of sufficient width.

  (A) Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:

  (1) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, or when making a left turn under the rules governing such movements;
  (2) When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway; provided, any person so doing shall yield the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the highway within such distance as to constitute an immediate hazard;
  (3) When driving upon a roadway divided into three or more marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable thereon;
  (4) When driving upon a roadway designated and posted with signs for one-way traffic;
  (5) When otherwise directed by a police officer or traffic control device.

  (B)

  (1) Upon all roadways any vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding at less than the prevailing and lawful speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic, and far enough to the right to allow passing by faster vehicles if such passing is safe and reasonable, except under any of the following circumstances:

  (a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding in the same direction ;
  (b) When preparing for a left turn;
  (c) When the driver must necessarily drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane to continue on the driver’s intended route.

  (2) Nothing in division

  (B)  (1) of this section requires a driver of a slower vehicle to compromise the driver’s safety to allow overtaking by a faster vehicle.

  (C) Upon any roadway having four or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for two-way movement of traffic, no vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven to the left of the center line of the roadway, except when authorized by official traffic control devices designating certain lanes to the left of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use the lanes, or except as permitted under division (A)(2) of this section.
  This division shall not be construed as prohibiting the crossing of the center line in making a left turn into or from an alley, private road, or driveway.
  
  (D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  ORC 4511.55 Operating bicycles and motorcycles on roadway.
  
  (A) Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.
  
  (B) Persons riding bicycles or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two abreast in a single lane, except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or motorcycles.
  
  (C) This section does not require a person operating a bicycle to ride at the edge of the roadway when it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so. Conditions that may require riding away from the edge of the roadway include when necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, surface hazards, or if it otherwise is unsafe or impracticable to do so, including if the lane is too narrow for the bicycle and an overtaking vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
  
  (D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  CoCC 2173.04  Bicycle to be ridden near right side of roadway; riding bicycles and motorcycles abreast.
  (A)   Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.
  
  (B)   Persons riding bicycles or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two (2) abreast in a single lane, except on shared-use paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or motorcycles.
  
  (C)   This section does not require a person operating a bicycle to ride at the edge of the roadway or within a marked bike lane when it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so. Conditions that may require riding away from the edge of the roadway or outside of a marked bike lane include when necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, surface hazards, or if it otherwise is unsafe or impracticable to do so, including if the lane is too narrow for the bicycle and an overtaking vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
  
  (D)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

• City of Columbus Children’s Bicycle Helmet requirement:  All bicycle and non-motorized vehicle (bicycles, skates, rollerblades, skateboards and scooters) riders under the age of 18 must wear a bicycle helmet  

  City of Columbus Code 2173.02 (B) (C2) (D) (E)

  2173.02  Rules for bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and children's non-motorized vehicles.

  (A)   A person operating a bicycle shall not ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, and a person operating a motorcycle shall not ride other than upon the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, nor carry any other person upon such bicycle or motorcycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat thereon, nor shall any person ride upon a bicycle or motorcycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat.

  A person shall ride upon a motorcycle only while sitting astride the seat, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.

  No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle, or article that prevents the driver from keeping at least one (1) hand upon the handle bars.

  No person operating a bicycle or motorcycle shall carry more persons at one (1) time than the number for which it is designed and equipped, nor shall any person operate a motorcycle on a street or highway when the handle bars or grips are more than fifteen (15) inches higher than the seat or saddle for the operator.

  No person shall operate or be a passenger on a snowmobile or motorcycle without using safety glasses or other protective eye device. No person who is under the age of eighteen (18) years, or who holds a motorcycle operator's endorsement or license bearing a "novice" designation that is currently in effect as provided in Section 4507.13 of the Ohio Revised Code shall operate a motorcycle on a highway, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, and no other person shall be a passenger on a motorcycle operated by such a person unless similarly wearing a protective helmet. The helmet, safety glasses, or other protective eye device shall conform with regulations prescribed and promulgated by the Ohio Director of Public Safety. The provisions of this paragraph or a violation thereof shall not be used in the trial of any civil action. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the carrying of a child over the age of one (1) year but under the age of eighteen (18) years in a seat or trailer that is designed for carrying children and is firmly attached to the bicycle.

  (B)   

  (1)   No person under the age of eighteen (18) shall operate a bicycle or children's non-motorized vehicle within the City without wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, with the chin strap fastened under the person's chin. Such helmet shall be fitted to the size of the operator's head and shall meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

  No person the age of one (1) or older but under the age of eighteen (18) shall ride as a passenger on a bicycle or non-motorized vehicle equipped with a firmly attached passenger seat or astride a regular seat on a tandem bicycle, within the City without wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, with the chin strap fastened under the person's chin. Such helmet shall be fitted to the size of the operator's head and shall meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Failure to wear a protective helmet as required in this division shall not be considered to be comparative or contributory negligence on the part of the parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child nor on the part of the child nor shall such failure be admissible in any civil action.

  (2)   No person, who is the parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child under eighteen (18) years of age shall authorize or knowingly permit such child to violate any provision of this division.

  (C)   

  (1)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (A) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  (2)   Whoever violates division (B)of this section shall be fined no more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

  (D)   The Director of Public Safety and the Chief of Police shall be responsible for enforcing division (B) of this section, and shall, as in all other enforcement actions, be afforded discretion and professional judgment in determining the appropriate enforcement action, including a verbal or written warning or the issuances of a summons.

  (E)   All fines collected for violations of division (B) of this section shall be deposited into the Bicycle Safety Fund.

• Bicycle rider allowing faster vehicles to pass
  Not compromising the safety of a bicyclist related to being passed by faster vehicles

  ORC 4511.25 Lanes of travel upon roadways of sufficient width.
  

  (A) Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven upon the right half of the roadway, except as follows:

  (1) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, or when making a left turn under the rules governing such movements;
  (2) When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway; provided, any person so doing shall yield the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the proper direction upon the unobstructed portion of the highway within such distance as to constitute an immediate hazard;
  (3) When driving upon a roadway divided into three or more marked lanes for traffic under the rules applicable thereon;
  (4) When driving upon a roadway designated and posted with signs for one-way traffic;
  (5) When otherwise directed by a police officer or traffic control device.

  (B)

  (1) Upon all roadways any vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding at less than the prevailing and lawful speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic, and far enough to the right to allow passing by faster vehicles if such passing is safe and reasonable, except under any of the following circumstances:

  (a) When overtaking and passing another vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding in the same direction ;
  (b) When preparing for a left turn;
  (c) When the driver must necessarily drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane to continue on the driver’s intended route.
  (2) Nothing in division (B)(1) of this section requires a driver of a slower vehicle to compromise the driver’s safety to allow overtaking by a faster vehicle.

  
  (C) Upon any roadway having four or more lanes for moving traffic and providing for two-way movement of traffic, no vehicle or trackless trolley shall be driven to the left of the center line of the roadway, except when authorized by official traffic control devices designating certain lanes to the left of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use the lanes, or except as permitted under division (A)(2) of this section.
  This division shall not be construed as prohibiting the crossing of the center line in making a left turn into or from an alley, private road, or driveway.
  
  (D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

• Prohibitions on passing a vehicle on the right side/when passing on right is allowed: 
  Drivers must audibly signal before passing another vehicle, must pass to the left at a safe distance and return to the right side when safely clear of the overtaken vehicle
  Overtaken vehicle must not increase speed until completely passed 

  ORC 4511.27 Overtaking and passing of vehicles proceeding in the same direction.

  (A) The following rules govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles or trackless trolleys proceeding in the same direction:

  (1) The operator of a vehicle or trackless trolley overtaking another vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding in the same direction shall, except as provided in division (A)(3) of this section, signal to the vehicle or trackless trolley to be overtaken, shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance, and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle or trackless trolley.

  (2) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the operator of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle at the latter’s audible signal, and the operator shall not increase the speed of the operator’s vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.

  (3) The operator of a vehicle or trackless trolley overtaking and passing another vehicle or trackless trolley proceeding in the same direction on a divided highway as defined in section 4511.35 of the Revised Code, a limited access highway as defined in section 5511.02 of the Revised Code, or a highway with four or more traffic lanes, is not required to signal audibly to the vehicle or trackless trolley being overtaken and passed.

  (B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

• Automobiles are permitted to pass bikes in no passing/hazardous zones (solid yellow centerline) if bicyclist is going less than half the maximum speed, and there is sufficient clear space in which to do so without exceeding the speed limit 

  ORC 4511.31 Establishing hazardous zones.

  (A) The department of transportation may determine those portions of any state highway where overtaking and passing other traffic or driving to the left of the center or center line of the roadway would be especially hazardous and may, by appropriate signs or markings on the highway, indicate the beginning and end of such zones. When such signs or markings are in place and clearly visible, every operator of a vehicle or trackless trolley shall obey the directions of the signs or markings, notwithstanding the distances set out in section 4511.30 of the Revised Code.

  (B) Division (A) of this section does not apply when all of the following apply:

  (1) The slower vehicle is proceeding at less than half the speed of the speed limit applicable to that location.

  (2) The faster vehicle is capable of overtaking and passing the slower vehicle without exceeding the speed limit.

  (3) There is sufficient clear sight distance to the left of the center or center line of the roadway to meet the overtaking and passing provisions of section 4511.29 of the Revised Code, considering the speed of the slower vehicle.

  (C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree. 

• Bicycle riders should ride as far to the right side of the roadway as practicable
  Bicycle riders should ride single file or no more than two-abreast
  Bicycle riders may move to the center of the lane when it is unreasonable or unsafe to ride to the right edge of the right lane
  Bicycle riders are not required to ride in bike lanes if bike lanes are on the roadway 

  ORC 4511.55 Operating bicycles and motorcycles on roadway.
  

  (A) Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.
  (B) Persons riding bicycles or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two abreast in a single lane, except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or motorcycles.
  (C) This section does not require a person operating a bicycle to ride at the edge of the roadway when it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so. Conditions that may require riding away from the edge of the roadway include when necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, surface hazards, or if it otherwise is unsafe or impracticable to do so, including if the lane is too narrow for the bicycle and an overtaking vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
  (D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  CoCC 2173.04  Bicycle to be ridden near right side of roadway; riding bicycles and motorcycles abreast.

  (A)   Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable obeying all traffic rules applicable to vehicles and exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction.
  (B)   Persons riding bicycles or motorcycles upon a roadway shall ride not more than two (2) abreast in a single lane, except on shared-use paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles or motorcycles.
  (C)   This section does not require a person operating a bicycle to ride at the edge of the roadway or within a marked bike lane when it is unreasonable or unsafe to do so. Conditions that may require riding away from the edge of the roadway or outside of a marked bike lane include when necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, surface hazards, or if it otherwise is unsafe or impracticable to do so, including if the lane is too narrow for the bicycle and an overtaking vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
  (D)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

• Cities, Counties, townships and villages must conform with state department of transportation manual and specifications for uniform traffic control devices, including signals and signage    
  ORC 4511.11 Local conformity to manual and specifications for uniform system of traffic control devices.
  

  (A) Local authorities in their respective jurisdictions shall place and maintain traffic control devices in accordance with the department of transportation manual and specifications for a uniform system of traffic control devices, adopted under section 4511.09 of the Revised Code, upon highways under their jurisdiction as are necessary to indicate and to carry out sections 4511.01 to 4511.76 and 4511.99 of the Revised Code, local traffic ordinances, or to regulate, warn, or guide traffic.

  (B) The director of transportation may require to be removed any traffic control device that does not conform to the manual and specifications for a uniform system of traffic control devices on the extensions of the state highway system within municipal corporations.

  (C) No village shall place or maintain any traffic control signal upon an extension of the state highway system within the village without first obtaining the permission of the director. The director may revoke the permission and may require to be removed any traffic control signal that has been erected without the director’s permission on an extension of a state highway within a village, or that, if erected under a permit granted by the director, does not conform to the state manual and specifications, or that is not operated in accordance with the terms of the permit.

  (D) All traffic control devices erected on a public road, street, or alley, shall conform to the state manual and specifications.

  (E) No person, firm, or corporation shall sell or offer for sale to local authorities any traffic control device that does not conform to the state manual and specifications, except by permission of the director.

  (F) No local authority shall purchase or manufacture any traffic control device that does not conform to the state manual and specifications, except by permission of the director.

  (G) Whoever violates division (E) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

• Bicycle riders may be issued tickets for violating traffic laws.

  ORC 4511.52 Bicycles - issuance of ticket - points not assessed.

  (A) Sections 4511.01 to 4511.78, 4511.99, and 4513.01 to 4513.37 of the Revised Code that are applicable to bicycles apply whenever a bicycle is operated upon any highway or upon any path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.

  (B) Except as provided in division (D) of this section, a bicycle operator who violates any section of the Revised Code described in division (A) of this section that is applicable to bicycles may be issued a ticket, citation, or summons by a law enforcement officer for the violation in the same manner as the operator of a motor vehicle would be cited for the same violation. A person who commits any such violation while operating a bicycle shall not have any points assessed against the person’s driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, temporary instruction permit, or probationary license under section 4510.036 of the Revised Code.

  (C) Except as provided in division (D) of this section, in the case of a violation of any section of the Revised Code described in division (A) of this section by a bicycle operator or by a motor vehicle operator when the trier of fact finds that the violation by the motor vehicle operator endangered the lives of bicycle riders at the time of the violation, the court, notwithstanding any provision of the Revised Code to the contrary, may require the bicycle operator or motor vehicle operator to take and successfully complete a bicycling skills course approved by the court in addition to or in lieu of any penalty otherwise prescribed by the Revised Code for that violation.

  (D) Divisions (B) and (C) of this section do not apply to violations of section 4511.19 of the Revised Code.

• Requirements for legal and safe operation of a bicycle:  Bicyclist should not carry extra passengers unless bicycle is equipped or if child carrier or trailer is used. Bicyclist should keep at least one hand on handlebars

  ORC 4511.53 Operation of bicycles, motorcycles and snowmobiles.

  (A) For purposes of this section, “snowmobile” has the same meaning as given that term in section 4519.01 of the Revised Code.

  (B) No person operating a bicycle shall ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto or carry any other person upon such bicycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat thereon, and no person shall ride upon a bicycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat.

  No person operating a motorcycle shall ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat or saddle attached thereto, or carry any other person upon such motorcycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat or saddle thereon, and no person shall ride upon a motorcycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat or saddle.

  No person shall ride upon a motorcycle that is equipped with a saddle other than while sitting astride the saddle, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.

  No person shall ride upon a motorcycle that is equipped with a seat other than while sitting upon the seat.

  No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle, or article that prevents the driver from keeping at least one hand upon the handle bars.

  No bicycle or motorcycle shall be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed and equipped, nor shall any motorcycle be operated on a highway when the handle bars or grips are more than fifteen inches higher than the seat or saddle for the operator.

  No person shall operate or be a passenger on a snowmobile or motorcycle without using safety glasses or other protective eye device. No person who is under the age of eighteen years, or who holds a motorcycle operator’s endorsement or license bearing a “novice” designation that is currently in effect as provided in section 4507.13 of the Revised Code, shall operate a motorcycle on a highway, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless wearing a protective helmet on the person’s head, and no other person shall be a passenger on a motorcycle operated by such a person unless similarly wearing a protective helmet. The helmet, safety glasses, or other protective eye device shall conform with regulations prescribed and promulgated by the director of public safety. The provisions of this paragraph or a violation thereof shall not be used in the trial of any civil action.

  (C) Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the carrying of a child in a seat or trailer that is designed for carrying children and is firmly attached to the bicycle.

  (D) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  CoCC 2173.02  Rules for bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and children's non-motorized vehicles.

  (A)   A person operating a bicycle shall not ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, and a person operating a motorcycle shall not ride other than upon the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, nor carry any other person upon such bicycle or motorcycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat thereon, nor shall any person ride upon a bicycle or motorcycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat.

  A person shall ride upon a motorcycle only while sitting astride the seat, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.

  No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle, or article that prevents the driver from keeping at least one (1) hand upon the handle bars.

  No person operating a bicycle or motorcycle shall carry more persons at one (1) time than the number for which it is designed and equipped, nor shall any person operate a motorcycle on a street or highway when the handle bars or grips are more than fifteen (15) inches higher than the seat or saddle for the operator.

  No person shall operate or be a passenger on a snowmobile or motorcycle without using safety glasses or other protective eye device. No person who is under the age of eighteen (18) years, or who holds a motorcycle operator's endorsement or license bearing a "novice" designation that is currently in effect as provided in Section 4507.13 of the Ohio Revised Code shall operate a motorcycle on a highway, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, and no other person shall be a passenger on a motorcycle operated by such a person unless similarly wearing a protective helmet. The helmet, safety glasses, or other protective eye device shall conform with regulations prescribed and promulgated by the Ohio Director of Public Safety. The provisions of this paragraph or a violation thereof shall not be used in the trial of any civil action. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the carrying of a child over the age of one (1) year but under the age of eighteen (18) years in a seat or trailer that is designed for carrying children and is firmly attached to the bicycle.

  (B)   

  (1)   No person under the age of eighteen (18) shall operate a bicycle or children's non-motorized vehicle within the City without wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, with the chin strap fastened under the person's chin. Such helmet shall be fitted to the size of the operator's head and shall meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

  No person the age of one (1) or older but under the age of eighteen (18) shall ride as a passenger on a bicycle or non-motorized vehicle equipped with a firmly attached passenger seat or astride a regular seat on a tandem bicycle, within the City without wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, with the chin strap fastened under the person's chin. Such helmet shall be fitted to the size of the operator's head and shall meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Failure to wear a protective helmet as required in this division shall not be considered to be comparative or contributory negligence on the part of the parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child nor on the part of the child nor shall such failure be admissible in any civil action.

  (2)   No person, who is the parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child under eighteen (18) years of age shall authorize or knowingly permit such child to violate any provision of this division.

  (C)   

  (1)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (A) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  (2)   Whoever violates division (B)of this section shall be fined no more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

  (D)   The Director of Public Safety and the Chief of Police shall be responsible for enforcing division (B) of this section, and shall, as in all other enforcement actions, be afforded discretion and professional judgment in determining the appropriate enforcement action, including a verbal or written warning or the issuances of a summons.

  (E)   All fines collected for violations of division (B) of this section shall be deposited into the Bicycle Safety Fund.

   

  CoCC  2173.08  Reckless operation; control, course and speed.

  (A)   No person shall operate a bicycle or child's non-motorized vehicle:

  (1)   Without due regard for the safety and rights of pedestrians and drivers and occupants of all other vehicles, and so as to endanger the life, limb or property of any person while in the lawful use of the streets or sidewalks or any other public or private property;

  (2)   Without exercising reasonable and ordinary control over such bicycle;

  (3)   In a weaving or zigzag course unless such irregular course is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law;

  (4)   Without keeping at least one hand upon the handle grips;

  (5)   At a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing.

  (B)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

   

• Bicycle riders are required to use legal and proper hand signals for turns and lane changes
  Bicycle hand signals are not required to be continuous
  Bicycle hand signals are not required when both hands are needed to safely control the bicycle
  Bicycle riders, when in designated left or right turn lanes, are not required to display proper hand signals   

  ORC 4511.39 Turn and stop signals.

  (A) No person shall turn a vehicle or trackless trolley or move right or left upon a highway unless and until such person has exercised due care to ascertain that the movement can be made with reasonable safety nor without giving an appropriate signal in the manner hereinafter provided.

  When required, a signal of intention to turn or move right or left shall be given continuously during not less than the last one hundred feet traveled by the vehicle or trackless trolley before turning, except that in the case of a person operating a bicycle, the signal shall be made not less than one time but is not required to be continuous. A bicycle operator is not required to make a signal if the bicycle is in a designated turn lane, and a signal shall not be given when the operator’s hands are needed for the safe operation of the bicycle.

  No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle or trackless trolley without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein to the driver of any vehicle or trackless trolley immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give a signal.

  Any stop or turn signal required by this section shall be given either by means of the hand and arm, or by signal lights that clearly indicate to both approaching and following traffic intention to turn or move right or left, except that any motor vehicle in use on a highway shall be equipped with, and the required signal shall be given by, signal lights when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the left outside limit of the body, cab, or load of such motor vehicle exceeds twenty-four inches, or when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the rear limit of the body or load thereof exceeds fourteen feet, whether a single vehicle or a combination of vehicles.

  The signal lights required by this section shall not be flashed on one side only on a disabled vehicle or trackless trolley, flashed as a courtesy or “do pass” signal to operators of other vehicles or trackless trolleys approaching from the rear, nor be flashed on one side only of a parked vehicle or trackless trolley except as may be necessary for compliance with this section.

  (B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

   

• Proper use of proper hand signals to signal turns and stops required 

  ORC 4511.40 Hand and arm signals.       

  (A) Except as provided in division (B) of this section, all signals required by sections 4511.01 to 4511.78 of the Revised Code, when given by hand and arm, shall be given from the left side of the vehicle in the following manner, and such signals shall indicate as follows:

  (1) Left turn, hand and arm extended horizontally;

  (2) Right turn, hand and arm extended upward;

  (3) Stop or decrease speed, hand and arm extended downward.

  (B) As an alternative to division (A)(2) of this section, a person operating a bicycle may give a right turn signal by extending the right hand and arm horizontally and to the right side of the bicycle.

  (C) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

• Bicycle riders, except small children, are prohibited from riding on sidewalks

  CoCC 2173.10 Riding bicycles on sidewalks.

  (a)   No person shall operate a bicycle upon a sidewalk, except for children's non-motorized vehicles as defined in section 2173.015 (A)(2), and at locations that the Columbus city council designates as bikeways or shared-use paths.

  (b)   This section shall not apply to:

   

  (1)   A police officer, Division of Fire personnel, or Parking Violation Bureau personnel when such personnel are riding a bicycle in the performance of official duties.

  (2)   Security guards employed by a special improvement district organized under Chapter 1710 of the Ohio Revised Code and certified through the International Police Mountain Biking Association, the Law Enforcement Bicycle Association, or an equivalent bicycle training as determined by the Director of Public Safety, when such personnel are riding a bicycle in the performance of official duties.

   

   

  (c)   Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor.

  2173.015  Definitions.
  

  (A)   For purposes of this Chapter:

  (1)   "Snowmobile" means any self propelled vehicle designed primarily for use on snow or ice, and steered by skis, runners, or caterpillar treads.

  (2)   "Children's non-motorized vehicle" means any child's wheeled device, including a bicycle that is under thirty (30) inches of handlebar height and operating at less than five (5) miles per hour, that is operator-propelled by human power in, upon, or by which any person may be transported upon a street, highway, sidewalk, or public or private property used for vehicular or pedestrian travel or parking; except that "non-motorized vehicle" does not include any wheelchair, any personal assistive mobility device, or any device that is used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks. "Non-motorized vehicle" would include, but is not limited to, children's bicycles with or without training wheels, roller skates, in-line skates, rollerblades, skateboards, unicycles, tricycles, quad cycles, and scooters.

  (3)   "Operate" means to cause or have caused movement of a vehicle or a non-motorized vehicle.

   

• Motor vehicles and motorcycles prohibited from using sidewalks, shared-use paths or bike lanes 

  CoCC 2173.105  Driving motor vehicles and riding motorcycles on sidewalks, shared-use paths or bike lanes.

  (a)   No person shall operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle upon a sidewalk or shared-use path except for:

  (1)   Motor vehicles under control of a local jurisdiction used for maintenance or repair activities.

  (b)   No person shall operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle in a bike lane except for:

  (1)   Motor vehicles under control of a local jurisdiction used for maintenance or repair activities;

  (2)   Motor vehicles used to lawfully load and unload passengers or freight;

  (3)   Motor vehicles accessing a legal on-street parking space;

  (4)   Motor vehicles safely merging right with bicycle operators in a marked bike lane, employing appropriate speed and distance allowances, before turning right onto a street or driveway;

  (c)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

   

• No local government/authority can require bicycles be ridden on the sidewalk  
  ORC 4511.711 Driving on sidewalk.
  
  

  (A) No person shall drive any vehicle, other than a bicycle, upon a sidewalk or sidewalk area except upon a permanent or duly authorized temporary driveway.

  Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting local authorities from regulating the operation of bicycles within their respective jurisdictions, except that no local authority may require that bicycles be operated on sidewalks.

  (B) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

   

• Requirements for bicycle lights, reflectors and brakes:  Bicycles should be equipped with front and rear lights from sunset to sunrise and during inclement weather. Bicycles should have adequate brakes.

  ORC 4511.56 Bicycle signal devices.

  (A) Every bicycle when in use at the times specified in section 4513.03 of the Revised Code, shall be equipped with the following:

  (1) A lamp mounted on the front of either the bicycle or the operator that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet to the front and three hundred feet to the sides. A generator-powered lamp that emits light only when the bicycle is moving may be used to meet this requirement.
  (2) A red reflector on the rear that shall be visible from all distances from one hundred feet to six hundred feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle;
  (3) A lamp emitting either flashing or steady red light visible from a distance of five hundred feet to the rear shall be used in addition to the red reflector. If the red lamp performs as a reflector in that it is visible as specified in division (A)(2) of this section, the red lamp may serve as the reflector and a separate reflector is not required.

  (B) Additional lamps and reflectors may be used in addition to those required under division (A) of this section, except that red lamps and red reflectors shall not be used on the front of the bicycle and white lamps and white reflectors shall not be used on the rear of the bicycle.
  (C) A bicycle may be equipped with a device capable of giving an audible signal, except that a bicycle shall not be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a bicycle any siren or whistle.
  (D) Every bicycle shall be equipped with an adequate brake when used on a street or highway.
  (E) Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  ORC 4513.03 Time for lighted lights on motor vehicles.

  (A) Every vehicle, other than a motorized bicycle, operated upon a street or highway within this state shall display lighted lights and illuminating devices as required by sections 4513.04 to 4513.37 of the Revised Code during all of the following times:

  (1) The time from sunset to sunrise;
  (2) At any other time when, due to insufficient natural light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions, persons, vehicles, and substantial objects on the highway are not discernible at a distance of one thousand feet ahead;
  (3) At any time when the windshield wipers of the vehicle are in use because of precipitation on the windshield.
  Every motorized bicycle shall display at such times lighted lights meeting the rules adopted by the director of public safety under section 4511.521 of the Revised Code. No motor vehicle, during such times any time specified in this section, shall be operated upon a street or highway within this state using only parking lights as illumination.
  Whenever in such sections a requirement is declared as to the distance from which certain lamps and devices shall render objects visible, or within which such lamps or devices shall be visible, such distance shall be measured upon a straight level unlighted highway under normal atmospheric conditions unless a different condition is expressly stated.
  Whenever in such sections a requirement is declared as to the mounted height of lights or devices, it shall mean from the center of such light or device to the level ground upon which the vehicle stands.

  (B) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, no law enforcement officer shall cause the operator of a vehicle being operated upon a street or highway within this state to stop the vehicle solely because the officer observes that a violation of division (A)(3) of this section has been or is being committed or for the sole purpose of issuing a ticket, citation, or summons for a violation of that division, or causing the arrest of or commencing a prosecution of a person for a violation of that division.
  (C) Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor.

  CoCC 2173.05  Signal devices on bicycle; brake.

  (A)   Every bicycle when in use at the times specified in Section 2137.02 of the Columbus City Code, shall be equipped with the following:

  (1)   A lamp mounted on the front of either the bicycle or the operator that shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred (500) feet to the front and three hundred (300) feet to the sides. A generator-powered lamp that emits lights only when the bicycle is moving may be used to meet this requirement.
  (2)   A red reflector on the rear that shall be visible from all distances from one hundred (100) feet to six hundred (600) feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful lower beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle;
  (3)   A lamp emitting either flashing or steady red light visible from a distance of five hundred (500) feet to the rear shall be used in addition to the red reflector. If the red lamp performs as a reflector in that it is visible as specified in division (A)(2) of this section, the red lamp may serve as the reflector and a separate reflector is not required.

  (B)   Additional lamps and reflectors may be used in addition to those required under division (A) of this section, except that red lamps and red reflectors shall not be used on the front of the bicycle and white lamps and white reflectors shall not be used on the rear of the bicycle.
  (C)   A bicycle may be equipped with a device capable of giving an audible signal, except that a bicycle shall not be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a bicycle any siren or whistle.
  (D)   Every bicycle shall be equipped with an adequate brake when used on a street, highway or shared-use path.
  (E)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

  CoCC 2173.02 Rules for bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and children's non-motorized vehicles.

  (A)   A person operating a bicycle shall not ride other than upon or astride the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, and a person operating a motorcycle shall not ride other than upon the permanent and regular seat attached thereto, nor carry any other person upon such bicycle or motorcycle other than upon a firmly attached and regular seat thereon, nor shall any person ride upon a bicycle or motorcycle other than upon such a firmly attached and regular seat.
  A person shall ride upon a motorcycle only while sitting astride the seat, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle.
  No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle, or article that prevents the driver from keeping at least one (1) hand upon the handle bars.
  No person operating a bicycle or motorcycle shall carry more persons at one (1) time than the number for which it is designed and equipped, nor shall any person operate a motorcycle on a street or highway when the handle bars or grips are more than fifteen (15) inches higher than the seat or saddle for the operator.
  No person shall operate or be a passenger on a snowmobile or motorcycle without using safety glasses or other protective eye device. No person who is under the age of eighteen (18) years, or who holds a motorcycle operator's endorsement or license bearing a "novice" designation that is currently in effect as provided in Section 4507.13 of the Ohio Revised Code shall operate a motorcycle on a highway, or be a passenger on a motorcycle, unless wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, and no other person shall be a passenger on a motorcycle operated by such a person unless similarly wearing a protective helmet. The helmet, safety glasses, or other protective eye device shall conform with regulations prescribed and promulgated by the Ohio Director of Public Safety. The provisions of this paragraph or a violation thereof shall not be used in the trial of any civil action. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the carrying of a child over the age of one (1) year but under the age of eighteen (18) years in a seat or trailer that is designed for carrying children and is firmly attached to the bicycle.
  (B)  

  (1)   No person under the age of eighteen (18) shall operate a bicycle or children's non-motorized vehicle within the City without wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, with the chin strap fastened under the person's chin. Such helmet shall be fitted to the size of the operator's head and shall meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
  No person the age of one (1) or older but under the age of eighteen (18) shall ride as a passenger on a bicycle or non-motorized vehicle equipped with a firmly attached passenger seat or astride a regular seat on a tandem bicycle, within the City without wearing a protective helmet on the person's head, with the chin strap fastened under the person's chin. Such helmet shall be fitted to the size of the operator's head and shall meet or exceed the standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Failure to wear a protective helmet as required in this division shall not be considered to be comparative or contributory negligence on the part of the parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child nor on the part of the child nor shall such failure be admissible in any civil action.
  (2)   No person, who is the parent, guardian, custodian, person having custody or control, or person in loco parentis of a child under eighteen (18) years of age shall authorize or knowingly permit such child to violate any provision of this division.

  (C)  

  (1)   Except as otherwise provided in this division, whoever violates division (A) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.
  (2)   Whoever violates division (B)of this section shall be fined no more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

  (D)   The Director of Public Safety and the Chief of Police shall be responsible for enforcing division (B) of this section, and shall, as in all other enforcement actions, be afforded discretion and professional judgment in determining the appropriate enforcement action, including a verbal or written warning or the issuances of a summons.
  (E)   All fines collected for violations of division (B) of this section shall be deposited into the Bicycle Safety Fund.