Tennessee § 55-8-177 - Bicycle lamps and brakes — Penalties.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-177 — Bicycle lamps and brakes — Penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 55-8-177. Bicycle lamps and brakes — Penalties.
Every bicycle, when in use at nighttime, shall be equipped with a lamp on the front, which shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet (500') to the front, and either a red reflector or a lamp emitting a red light, which shall be visible from a distance of at least five hundred feet (500') to the rear, when directly in front of lawful upper beams of head lamps on a motor vehicle. Every bicycle shall be equipped with a brake or brakes which will enable its driver to stop the bicycle within twenty-five feet (25') from a speed of ten miles per hour (10 mph) on dry, level, clean pavement. A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 77; T.C.A., § 59-878; Acts 1985, ch. 138, § 6; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 2009, ch. 397, § 1. Cross-References. Penalty for Class C misdemeanor, § 40-35-111 .
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 55-8-177
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-177 cover?
Section 55-8-177 ("Bicycle lamps and brakes — Penalties.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. 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 Tennessee § 55-8-177?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-177" (Tennessee). 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 Tennessee law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.
How does Tennessee § 55-8-177 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee 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 Tennessee.