New Hampshire § 265-144 - Section 265:144 Riding on Bicycles.

Full text of New Hampshire New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 265-144 — Section 265:144 Riding on Bicycles., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 265-144. Section 265:144 Riding on Bicycles.

I. A person propelling a bicycle shall not ride other than upon or astride a permanent and regular seat attached to the bicycle. II. No bicycle shall be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed and equipped. III. No person riding upon any bicycle, coaster, roller skates, skateboard, sled or toy vehicle shall attach the same or himself to any vehicle upon a roadway. IV. No person operating a bicycle shall carry any package, bundle or article which prevents the driver from keeping at least one hand upon the handlebars. V. Persons riding bicycles 2 or more abreast shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic and, on a laned roadway, shall ride within a single lane. VI. Bicyclists intending to turn right or left shall not be required to give a continuous hand or arm signal if the hand is needed in the control or operation of the bicycle. VII. A person propelling a bicycle may pass a slower-moving vehicle in the same lane provided such movement can be made with reasonable safety. A person propelling a bicycle may pass a stationary or stopped motor vehicle on the right. VIII. Any bicyclist shall stop upon demand of a peace officer and permit his bicycle to be inspected. IX. No bicycle shall be operated unless the steering, brakes, tires and other required equipment are in safe condition. X. No person less than 16 years of age may operate or ride upon a bicycle on a public way unless he or she wears protective headgear of a type approved by the commissioner of health and human services. XI. A person propelling a bicycle upon a way at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time and place shall remain on the right portion of the way as far as practicable except when it is unsafe to do so or: (a) When overtaking and passing another bicycle or any other vehicle proceeding in the same direction. (b) When preparing for or making a left turn at an intersection or into a driveway. (c) When proceeding straight in a place where right turns are permitted. (d) When necessary to avoid hazardous conditions, including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, broken pavement, glass, sand, puddles, ice, or opening doors of parked vehicles. XII. A bicyclist shall wear at least one item of reflective outerwear apparel, such as a reflective vest, jacket, or helmet strip, during the period from 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise.

Source: official New Hampshire text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About New Hampshire § 265-144

What does New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 265-144 cover?

Section 265-144 ("Section 265:144 Riding on Bicycles.") is part of the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Hampshire. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite New Hampshire § 265-144?

A common citation format is "New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 265-144" (New Hampshire). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of New Hampshire law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Hampshire official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Hampshire attorney.

How does New Hampshire § 265-144 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Hampshire can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Hampshire.