A person riding a bicycle must ride as near to which side of the roadway?

A person riding a bicycle must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as is safely possible. This rule is established to promote the safety of both cyclists and motorists. By riding on the right, cyclists are more visible to drivers and can avoid potential collisions with vehicles traveling in the same direction. It also allows for smoother traffic flow, as vehicles can easily pass cyclists when they are positioned properly on the road. Additionally, riding to the right typically provides cyclists with a safer space to navigate, especially in areas where bike lanes or shoulders exist.

While the shoulder may also seem like a possibility for riding, it is not always the safest or appropriate option, especially if it's in poor condition or obstructed. Riding in the center of the road or the left side could create hazards for both the cyclist and vehicles, as it might place cyclists in the path of oncoming traffic or disrupt the normal flow of vehicles. Hence, adhering to riding as near as safely possible to the right side is crucial for the safety and efficiency of road use.