Rules of the Road

Drive predictably

Motorists get a sense of what you intend to do and can react to avoid a crash.

Drive where you are expected to be seen, travel in the same direction as traffic, minimize blind spots and signal and look over your shoulder before changing lane position or turning.

Avoid or minimize sidewalk riding. Cars don’t expect to see moving traffic on a sidewalk and don’t look for you when backing out of a driveway or turning. Sidewalks sometimes end unexpectedly, forcing the bicyclist into a road when a car isn’t expecting to look for a bicyclist. If you must ride on the sidewalk remember to:

While You Ride

• Ride with the traffic — on the right side of the road, in the same direction as cars.

• Ride in a straight line, single file with others.

• Obey all traffic signs and signals just like a driver.

• Keep both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling.

• Use hand signals for turns and stops.

• Stay alert — watch for:

• Potholes, cracks, pebbles, or wet leaves

• Parked cars opening doors (“door zone”)

• Cars pulling out of driveways or parking spaces
  Listen for traffic — don’t wear earphones.

At Intersections

Stop before entering.
Look left–right–left for traffic.
Walk your bike across the intersection if needed.

Remember

• Be predictable and visible to drivers.

• Make eye contact before crossing or merging.

• Stay calm, focused, and aware of your surroundings.