Which of the following is true regarding the treatment of bicycles on roadways?

Bicycles are treated as vehicles on roadways, which is crucial for understanding the rights and responsibilities of cyclists in Virginia and many other jurisdictions. This means that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators. They must follow the same traffic laws, signals, and signs, and they have the right to use the road, provided they operate their bicycles according to the established rules.

This classification as vehicles allows cyclists to navigate roadways legally, making it necessary for both cyclists and drivers to be aware of one another to ensure safety. It also implies that cyclists should be vigilant about safe riding practices, such as riding in the same direction as traffic and using hand signals when turning or stopping.

The other statements imply restrictions or misconceptions about the rights of cyclists. For example, saying that bicycles have no right to travel on roads inaccurately depicts the legal status of cyclists. Furthermore, suggesting that bicycles must always stay on sidewalks ignores the rules that allow cyclists to use roadways where applicable. Lastly, while bicycles may require certain lighting to operate safely at night, it is not universally mandated that all bicycles must have special lighting; rather, the requirement can depend on local laws.