In response to a recent letter to the Editor “Encouraging more bicyclists in Tryon” Mr. Heckelman stated, “Just because the road has a double yellow line on it doesn’t mean you can’t swing over to the other lane to pass us.”
“You don’t have to try to stay within your lane to obey a no passing requirement when it comes to passing a bicyclist.”
Under N.C. law, bicycles are considered vehicles. (see, N.C. Gen. Statute(s) 20-4.01 and 20-171).
Furthermore, pursuant to N.C. Gen. Statute 20-150, as well as the N.C.D.O.T. publication, “A Guide to North Carolina Bicycle and Pedestrian Laws” [a] motorist may not drive left of the center of the highway to pass a vehicle, [including a bicycle] (emphasis added), … where the Department of Transportation has placed signs or markers indicating the passing should not be attempted.

– Scott Hyland Sheffron, Esq., Columbus