Switching Gears encourages everyone to commute responsibly. Here are some tips to help all travelers get around more safely.
v For Bicyclists
o Wear helmet and wear it properly- Protect a very precious asset. Nobody expects to fall, but it happens to everyone. 75% of the annual 10o deaths from bicycle crashes are due to serious head injuries.
o Ride with traffic, not against it
o Use designated bike lanes when available
o Be visible
§ Use front and backlights. At night cyclist need to have both a visible white front light and a red rear facing light
§ Wear light-colored or reflective clothing
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| Bicycle Hand Singals |
o Be clear and predictable
§ Signal for lane changes and turns
§ Never pass on the right
§ Warn pedestrians if you will be passing from behind
o Avoid trouble-Always scan ahead for hazards
§ Stay out of the “door zone.”- Be far enough away (3ft) from parked cars to avoid being hit by a sudden door opening.
§ Check for traffic before entering any street or intersection. Remember driveways are intersections too!
§ Ride defensively, be aware of traffic movement
o Be Polite
§ Yield to pedestrians You cannot ride on sidewalks in business districts or if you are over the age 14.
§ Obey all traffic rules including signs, signals, and lane markings.
§ Never steal the right away. If you are forced to take the lane to safely navigate a narrow road, make sure you move over as soon as possible to let drivers stuck behind you pass.
§ Travel in a single-file straight line
§ Apologize if you make an error
§ Give a wave of thanks to someone who does something nice for you
v For Drivers
o Keep a lookout
§ Watch for pedestrians and cyclists at all times. Always expect cyclist on the road
§ Be aware of crosswalks and bike lanes
§ Look carefully behind you vehicle before backing up
§ Watch for cyclists and pedestrians when exiting driveways and alleys
§ Yield to pedestrians within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection
§ Obey all traffic laws, signals, and signs.
§ Always signal your intent.
§ Do not block, or park in crosswalks or bike lanes
§ Vehicles may not be driven or parked in a bicycle lane that is signed and delineated as a bicycling lane.
o Be patient
§ Drive the speed limit. Reduce speed when encountering cyclists if needed
§ Never pass or overtake a vehicle that is stopped for pedestrian
§ Ensure safe conditions before passing a cyclist, allowing adequate space between you and the cyclist. Don’t pass if it is not safe.
§ Come to a complete stop at STOP signs
§ Be extra careful around children playing near the street or older pedestrians who may not see or hear you.
o Be courteous
§ Do not honk to communicate with a bicyclist or pedestrian. A sudden reaction my cause a cyclist to crash or veer into traffic.
§ Do not follow closely behind a bicyclist
§ Realize motor vehicles create turbulence and recognize hazardous conditions that may affect cyclists
v For Pedestrians
o Stay smart and alert
§ Always stay on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk then walk facing traffic.
§ Never assume a vehicle will stop.
§ Listen carefully for engine noise and look for backup lights in parking lots and near on-street parking spaces
§ Be careful when crossing
§ Used marked crosswalks or intersections whenever possible.
§ Obey traffic and pedestrian signals
§ Look both ways before you cross any street even if there sis a pedestrian signal
§ At multi-lane crossings, look across all lanes. Just because one motorist stops, do not assume drivers in other lanes will stop as well.
§ Don’t wear headphones or talk on a cell phone when crossing
§ Watch for turning vehicles Stand clear of buses, hedges, parked cars or other obstacles before crossing so drivers can see you.
§ Stand out, especially at night. Wear bright/light-colored clothing and/or reflective materials.
§ Cross in well lit areas
§ Carry a flashlight
