When can you legally drive in a bike lane?

The legal allowance to drive in a bike lane is specifically tied to certain conditions, primarily when a driver is preparing to make a turn. This is designed to ensure the safety of cyclists who use the bike lane for travel. When a vehicle approaches an intersection and needs to turn right, it may temporarily enter the bike lane to do so, provided this action does not endanger cyclists or violate any traffic signals. This practice helps facilitate smooth traffic flow while still prioritizing the safety and rights of those using the bike lane. It's important for drivers to be vigilant and aware of any cyclists present, signaling their intentions clearly and yielding the right-of-way to them before making the turn.