When is it safe to drive in a bicycle lane?

Driving in a bicycle lane is permissible under specific circumstances, particularly when making a right turn. This rule is in place to ensure that motorists can navigate intersections safely without endangering cyclists. When preparing to turn right, a driver may momentarily enter the bicycle lane, provided they do so with caution and yield to any bicycles that may already be using that lane.

In this context, the other choices reveal situations that either restrict or misinterpret the use of bicycle lanes. Parking in a bicycle lane is not typically allowed, as it can obstruct cyclists, and general driving in the lane whenever there are no bicycles present disregards the importance of the lane intended for cyclists. Also, stating that it is never safe to drive in a bicycle lane overlooks the legitimate and safe occasion of making a right turn, provided that the turning driver is alert and yielding to cyclists. Understanding the context of when it is appropriate to use a bicycle lane for turns is crucial for maintaining safety for all road users.