Here are some guidelines that will help you choose the optimum safe position on the road:
Laws
Most bicycle laws use the same language regarding where cyclists should ride
Directions to ride "as far to the right as practicable" appear in most laws
No clear definition of "practicable" has been identified
Safety
Do not ride where you're subject to poor road conditions andconstant hazards
Give yourself ample room tothe right to maneuver in an emergency
Ride in the right third of the lane if there is insufficient room for lane sharing
Traffic rules
Slower moving vehicles travel to the right of faster moving ones
Motorists are looking for other vehicles in or near the travel lanes,
not against curbs
Follow the same rules as motorists, including yielding right-of-way and signaling
Wide lanes
Ride just to the right of the travel lane to remain visible to other motorists
Ride at least 3 feet from parked cars in all situations; consider this a
right-side limit
Always ride in a straight line; do not swerve in and outbetween parked cars
Hazards
If a lane narrows ahead or is blocked, signal and establish your position
in traffic early
Avoid riding where glass and other trash accumulates on the right side
of roadways
Avoid grates and gutterpans as they can cause you to crash
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