Safety

Bicycles are considered vehicles under state law (NC General Statutes). Therefore cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.

  • Bike that fits you properly and has functioning equipment

    • Reflectors on both wheels

    • White front light and red rear light

  • Secure any loose items into a backpack or safely attached to the bike

  • Ride in the center of your lane

  • Wear bright colors, reflective gear, and protective clothing

    • Closed-toe shoes with laces tucked in

    • Properly fitting helmet

  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping

  • Ride single file or two abreast when biking with friends

  • Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks

  • Cross intersections carefully and obey all traffic signals

    • Dismount when crossing from sidewalks or multiuse paths

  • Be aware of surroundings and avoid riding in blind spots

  • Plan your route to include safe paths or bike lanes

    • Use the bikeability checklist to evaluate your preparedness and make sure your ride is safe, legal and fun

Safe walking habits can save lives. In most situations, pedestrians have the right of way, especially at crosswalks and intersections, but that doesn’t always mean it is safe to cross.

Even if you have the right of way, use caution. It is safest to cross when you…

  • Look and listen for traffic in all directions

  • Make eye contact with drivers or cyclists and ensure they are stopped

  • Observe a green traffic light in the direction you are going

  • Hear or see a pedestrian crossing signal indicating you can cross

Additional good habits

  • Use sidewalks whenever available

  • Walk facing traffic, as far from the road as possible if no sidewalk exists

  • Walk in well lit areas, with bright or reflective clothing at night

    • Use your phone flashlight if wearing dark clothes and no reflectors

  • Never assume drivers will see you or will stop

  • Do not run across the street

    • Take your time and cross safely

  • Be aware of your surroundings

Teach children to…

  • Recognize traffic signs and signals

  • Look and listen for traffic

  • Walk at the appropriate time

  • Stay close to adults in busy or unfamiliar areas

Children should always be supervised when learning to navigate roads, sidewalks and intersections. They need practice in various settings to build their confidence and situational awareness before should be allowed to bike or walk independently.

As a motorist, it is your responsibility to make the roads safer for everyone. Driving with patience, awareness and care helps prevent accidents and saves lives.

  • Pass cyclists with lots of distance

    • Move at least 2 feet away from them or into the adjacent lane when it is safe to do so

  • Do not tailgate or cut off cyclists

  • Do not pass a stopped car near a crosswalk or mid-road

    • There could be someone crossing or a hidden hazard

  • Check your blind spots

    • Given the difference in size, both cyclists and pedestrians can sneak up quickly

  • Expect cyclists and pedestrians to not stop

  • Slow down in areas with increased cyclists and pedestrians

  • Drive defensive, not aggressive

  • Do not drive distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol

  • Obey all traffic signs, signals, and markings

  • Respect work zones, school zones and other areas with modified speed limits

  • Make eye contact with pedestrians and cyclists

  • Always wear a seat belt and ensure everyone in the vehicle abides