Bicycle Safety

Bicyclists on public streets have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers. Bicyclists are part of the normal traffic flow and are entitled to share the road with other drivers. Here are some critical points for drivers and cyclists to remember:

Bicyclists:

• must ride in the same direction as other traffic, not against it.
• must ride in a straight line as near to the right curb or edge of the roadway as practical— not on the sidewalk.
• must make left and right turns in the same way that drivers do, using the same turn lanes.
• may legally move left to turn left, to pass a parked or moving vehicle, another bicycle, an animal, or to make a turn, avoid debris, or other hazards.
• may choose to ride near the left curb or edge of one-way street.
• may use a left turn lane. If the bicyclist is traveling straight ahead, he or she should use a through traffic lane rather than ride next to the curb and block traffic making right turns.
• are lawfully permitted to ride on certain sections of freeways, when signs are posted. Be careful when approaching or passing a bicyclist on a freeway.

Drivers must:

• look carefully for bicyclists before opening doors next to moving traffic or before turning right.
• safely merge toward the curb or into the bike lane.
• not overtake a bicyclist just before making a right turn. Merge first, then turn.

Bicycle Commuting & Safety

What has two wheels, improves mobility and air quality, reduces traffic congestion and parking demand, saves energy, and promotes healthy living through enjoyable exercise? Sound too good to be true? Planners, engineers, policymakers, and cyclists recognize these as benefits of bicycle commuting.

Equipping Your Bicycle for Commuting

• Make sure the bicycle is properly sized and adjusted.
• Use a white headlamp and a red rear reflector for night riding.
• A rack over the rear wheel is convenient for carrying item such as books, a briefcase or clothing.
• A rack over the rear wheel is convenient for carrying items such as books, a briefcase or clothing.
• Carry a basic tool kit, tire patch kit and tire pump for those unexpected roadside repairs.

Bicycle Safety Guidelines

• Wear a bicycle helmet. It is the law for persons under 18 years of age.
• Ride with the traffic flow.
• Ride in a straight line.
• Ride to the right if you are moving slower than other traffic, unless you are turing left, passing another bicycle or vehicle, or avoiding hazards.
• Stop at stop signs and red lights.
• Use a light, reflectors and reflective clothing during darkness.
• Wear bright clothing during the daytime.
• Ride to the right if you are moving slower that other traffic, unless you are turning left, passing another bicycle or vehicle, or avoiding hazards.
• Keep a safe distance from parked cars.
• Use proper hand signals when turning, stopping or changing lanes.
• Use extra caution when it is raining, and allow extra time to stop.
• Cross railroad tracks at a right angle.
• Walk your bike when using a crosswalk.
• Do not wear headphones on both ears while riding.
• Keep your bike properly maintained so it is safe.
• Do not drink and ride.
• Ride defensively.
• Use hand signals.
• Be alert for road hazards.
• Watch for cars at cross streets and driveways.
• Obey all traffic signals.
• Use lights at night.
• Keep your bike in good condition.
• Ride in the same direction as the flow of traffic. Keep right where practicable to allow vehicles to pass.
• Be aware of parked cars and watch for car doors that may open.
• Give pedestrians the right of way.

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