In Washington State, do not go straight from a lane marked right-turn only unless specific bicycle signs or signals permit it. Move into a permitted through lane before the intersection only when it is safe and allowed. If you miss that opportunity, take a legal alternative instead of swerving across turning traffic.
Read the Lane You Are Actually In
A navigation app may show your route continuing straight while the pavement arrow beneath you points right. Follow the actual lane controls, not the app's line.
Check whether you are in the general traffic lane or a separately marked bicycle facility with its own instructions. Do not assume that being on a bike creates an exception to a turn-only sign.
WSDOT specifically warns bicyclists against going straight in a right-turn-only lane. Washington's roadway rules generally give bicycle riders the rights and duties of vehicle drivers, with stated exceptions. This advice assumes your vehicle legally qualifies for bicycle or e-bike roadway use.
Make the Lane Change Before It Becomes an Emergency
Notice the lane change early enough to assess traffic behind and beside you. Signal your intention, recheck, and change position only when you have a safe opening and the markings permit it.
A signal tells others what you intend; it does not create a gap. Washington's lane rules require a driver to establish that moving from the lane can be done safely and to obey designated lane directions.
Do not leave the decision until you are beside a vehicle whose driver is already committed to turning. Being almost at the intersection is a reason to avoid a rushed correction, not to make one.
If You Cannot Reach the Through Lane Safely
Do not ride straight along the outside of a turning vehicle or cut across its front. Avoid an abrupt stop in the vehicle's turning path.
Depending on the road, the workable choice may be a legal right turn followed by a different route, or reaching a safe place before dismounting and using a lawful pedestrian connection. Neither option means suddenly jumping onto a sidewalk or crossing from wherever you happen to be.
Once safely out of the traffic flow, check the map again. Losing a little distance is preferable to inventing a last-second crossing movement.
Change the Route if This Keeps Happening
A recurring turn-only conflict is worth solving before the next ride. Consider a different approach street or a clearer crossing rather than relying on a difficult merge every time.
The e-bike traffic-safety guide covers the wider observation and route-planning habits behind that decision.
When comparing electric bikes for your route, consider whether you can comfortably control the bike in those conditions. Extra assistance does not change a turn-only lane into a through lane.
