Traffic Citations for Cyclists

The State of Illinois Vehicle Code states that bicyclists “shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle.” Bicyclists breaking motor vehicle laws such as riding the wrong way on a one-street or failing to stop at a stop sign can receive a state traffic citation under the Illinois Vehicle Code. In addition, the Cities of Champaign and Urbana each have municipal ordinances under which cyclists can receive traffic citations. The University of Illinois Police Department (UIPD) is authorized to write traffic citations under the Illinois Vehicle Code as well as Champaign and Urbana municipal ordinances, in addition to the University Bicycle Code.

Diversion Program

To further promote education and awareness of safe bicycling behavior, the Cities of Champaign and Urbana and the University of Illinois are offering an educational diversion program for cyclists who receive municipal or university ordinance citations. Under all three jurisdictions, traffic citations for cyclists may be reduced or forgiven by completing an online educational tool produced by the League of Illinois Bicyclists called the Bike Safety Quiz, available at http://www.bikesafetyquiz.com.