Safety
Cyclists
In North Carolina, bicycles are considered vehicles under state law (NC General Statutes). That means that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Whether you are biking to commute, exercise or for fun, safety starts with preparation and knowledge.
Before you hit the road, make sure you are prepared with the right gear, knowledge and habits to protect yourself and those around you.
Equipment Checklist
Bike that fits you properly and has functioning equipment
Reflectors on both wheels
White front light and red rear light
Properly fitting helmet
Closed-toe shoes with laces tucked in
Secure any loose items into a backpack or safely attached to the bike
Be Predictable
Ride in the center of your lane
Wear bright colors, reflective gear, and protective clothing
Use hand signals when turning or stopping
Ride single file or two abreast when biking with friends
Bike Etiquette
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
Are you ready?
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.
Pedestrians
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.
Know When to Go
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
Smart Pedestrian Habits
Use sidewalks whenever available
Walk facing traffic, as far from the road as possible if no sidewalk exists
Walk in well lit areas, especially at nights
Wear 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
Walking Safely with Children
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.
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
Drivers
As a motorist, it is your responsibility to help make the roads safer for everyone. Driving with patience, awareness and care helps prevent accidents and saves lives.
Share the Road
Pass cyclists like any other vehicle. 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 cyclist and pedestrians to not stop
Slow down in neighborhoods, school zones, or areas with increased cyclists and pedestrians
Safe Driving
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
Ensure everyone in the vehicle has their seat buckled whenever the vehicle is on