Where should you stop when approaching a red light or stop sign?

• A. In the middle of the intersection.
• B. In a legal area with hands visible and bike under control.
• C. On the sidewalk.
• D. In the crosswalk.

Answer: (B)

When approaching a red light or stop sign on a bicycle, stop in a legal area before the intersection where you can keep the bike under control and your hands visible. This position keeps you out of the path of turning vehicles, makes you predictable to drivers, and allows you to start safely when it’s your turn. Keeping hands visible communicates that you’ve stopped and are ready to proceed, reducing surprises for others. Stopping in the middle of the intersection blocks traffic and is unsafe if the light changes or a vehicle makes a turn. Stopping on the sidewalk can be illegal in many places and puts pedestrians at risk, and stopping in a crosswalk blocks pedestrians who are trying to cross. So the best practice is to stop in the legal area before the intersection with hands visible and the bike under control.