When to ride bike in traffic lane?

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<p>Q: I am planning on riding my bike to work.&nbsp; I did a test run of my route and found that some parts of the street didn?t have a shoulder or bicycle lane and the traffic lane was very narrow.&nbsp; Can I take the traffic lane and still be safe?<br /><br />A:&nbsp; When you are faced with these conditions on the road, you can use the traffic lane, but make sure you ride closer to the center of the lane.&nbsp; This will prevent motorists from dangerously attempting to squeeze past you when there is not enough room.&nbsp; You should also take the traffic lane when you are traveling at the same speed as the traffic around you.&nbsp; This will keep you out of the motorist?s blind spots and reduce conflicts with right-turning traffic.&nbsp; For more safety tips for bicyclists and motorists go to http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/brochures/fast_facts/ffdl37.htm.&nbsp; <br /><br />Do you have questions about general driving related requirements like registration and insurance? Are you unclear about laws and restrictions related to driving? The California Department of Motor Vehicles has answers. ?Save Time by Going Online,? at www.dmv.ca.gov.</p>