The convenience of shared bicycles has transformed urban mobility, allowing people to enjoy cycling around the city. On weekends and holidays, you can spot many children joyfully riding shared bikes in parks and greenways throughout Chengdu. Some parents have even chosen to buy bicycles for their kids. While cycling is beneficial for health, safety concerns must be addressed, particularly when it comes to underage riders. The risks can vary from collisions between young cyclists on crowded paths to riding on busy roads. So, what legal regulations exist regarding minors riding bicycles? It’s important for everyone to familiarize themselves with this topic.
1. **Tragic Case of an 11-Year-Old Cyclist**
Let’s take a closer look at a tragic example. According to a report from Xiaoxiang Morning News, on the morning of August 11, 2024, while driving along a roadway in Hebei Province, a man named Jiang encountered a group of cyclists. One 11-year-old boy fell off his bike, crossing into the opposing lane where he was unfortunately struck by Jiang’s car, leading to his immediate death. The boy’s father, who was cycling alongside, was understandably devastated.
This incident sparked widespread discussion with some netizens questioning whether parents should allow young children to ride in that area, suggesting a failure to fulfill parental duties. Cycling enthusiasts voiced concerns over the management and nature of the roadway in question. Following the accident, police detained Jiang on charges of involuntary manslaughter, and by August 25, he was formally arrested. As of October 11, reports indicated that Jiang had reached a compensation agreement with the family of the child.
2. **Legal Age Requirements for Minors Cycling**
This case serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need for safety measures in cycling. So, how can young cyclists ensure their safety? We turned to He Haiyan, a lecturer at Chengdu University’s Law School and a researcher at Sichuan’s Anti-Domestic Violence Knowledge Base, to shed light on the relevant legal knowledge regarding cycling.
**Q: Are there age requirements for minors riding bicycles?**
**He Haiyan:** Yes, China’s Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law (2017 revision) state that individuals must be at least 12 years old to ride bicycles or tricycles, and at least 16 years old to ride electric bicycles or motorized wheelchairs for disabled persons.
**Q: How are minors held responsible for cycling accidents?**
**He Haiyan:** According to Article 1188 of the Civil Code, if a minor causes damage while riding, their guardian is liable. The extent of this liability considers whether the guardian met their supervisory responsibilities, potentially reducing their liability. If the minor has assets, they should be used first to cover any damages, and only if those are insufficient should the guardian’s assets be used.
**Q: What rules should minors follow while cycling?**
**He Haiyan:** The same regulations prohibit minors from riding under the influence, and require them to slow down and signal before turning. They should avoid sudden movements, not disrupt other vehicles while overtaking, and must not engage in dangerous behaviors like riding unicycles or pulling each other. Also, individuals without lower limb disabilities cannot operate a motorized wheelchair, and non-motorized bicycles should not be modified with power devices.
**Q: What should parents consider when their children ride?**
**He Haiyan:** Parents must embrace their role as guardians. First, they should stay informed about traffic safety and regulations. Second, children under 12 should not be riding on the roads, while those over 12 who are allowed to cycle must be educated on proper riding techniques and safety protocols. Lastly, before their child rides, parents should ensure the bike is safe and well-maintained, particularly checking the brakes, and that proper protective gear like helmets is worn. During rides, both parents and children should avoid distractions like phone calls and stay within designated bike lanes. For example, cyclists should ride in non-motorized lanes when available, keeping to the right side of the road to avoid vehicles’ blind spots, and not carrying extra passengers or using headphones while cycling.
This guidance highlights the importance of safety and responsibility when it comes to cycling, ensuring that both minors and their guardians prioritize a secure riding experience.
