Riding in Traffic

Always ride with traffic.
This is the law

Motorists are not looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road. Also you can endanger an oncoming bicyclist.

Observe stop signs, signals and basic right-of-way-rules

Yield to pedestrians. Never ride on the sidewalk, unless it is specifically marked as a bike route.

Use hand signals

Hand signals tell motorists what you intend to do. Signalling is a matter of law, of courtesy, and of self-protection.

Keep clear of the door zone

Try to ride a door’s width away from parked cars. If you have to ride in the door zone, ride very slowly. You have the right to ride in a traffic lane if it is too narrow to share with a car.

Keep both hands ready to brake

You may not stop in time if you brake one-handed. Allow extra distance for stopping in the rain and heavy fog, since brakes are less efficient when wet.

Ride a well equipped bike

Be sure your bike is adjusted to fit you properly. For safety and efficiency, outfit it with a bell, rear-view mirror, rack or basket, lights and reflector. Carry a water bottle, bike pump and patch kit. Wear a helmet. Keep your bike in good working order.

Bicycling at night

At night, a white front light, red rear reflector, wheel and pedal reflectors, are required by law. Wear bright or reflective clothing for visibility.

Don’t weave between parked cars

Don’t ride out to the curb between parked cars, unless they are far apart. Motorists may not see you when you try to move back into traffic.

Choose the best way to turn left

Don’t turn left from the right lane. Don’t ride straight in a lane marked right-turn only.

Follow lane markings

There are two ways to make a left turn:

1. Like an auto. Signal, move into the left lane, and turn left.
2. Like a pedestrian. If you are within a designated crosswalk, dismount and walk your bike across.

Passing on the right can be hazardous

Motorists may not look for or see a bicycle passing on the right.

Look before you pass or merge

Look before you pass or merge.
Some riders also use rear-view mirrors. Leave 3-4 feet when passing a motor vehicle or another bicyclist. Give a clear warning (use your bikebell, or call out “Passing on your left”). Make eye contact. Assume drivers don’t see you even when you may be certain they do.

In front, or far behind, not beside!

In front, or far behind, not beside!
To insure drivers of large vehicles (trucks, buses, and motor homes) can see you, stay out of their blind spots. Never pass on the right side. Ride far enough behind for the driver to see you, and at least 4 feet from the sides so you can’t fall under a large vehicle.

Avoid road hazards.

Watch out for streetcar and railroad tracks. Cross them perpendicularly. Avoid parallel-slat sewer grates, utility covers, painted and/or oily pavement, gravel, and pot-holes. These are all more hazardous when wet.