Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety

Pedestrian Safety Tips

  • Pedestrians should increase their visibility when it is dark by carrying a flashlight when walking and by wearing retro-reflective clothing.
  • Whenever possible, pedestrians should cross the street at a designated crosswalk.
  • Obey traffic signals such as "WALK" and "DON'T WALK" signs.
  • Watch for turning vehicles. Make sure the driver sees you and will stop for you.
  • It is much safer to walk on a sidewalk, but if pedestrians must walk in the street, they should walk facing traffic.
Pedestrians
  • Don't assume vehicles will stop. Make eye contact with drivers, don't just look at the vehicle. If a driver is on a cell phone, he or she may not be paying enough attention to drive safely.
  • Don't rely solely on pedestrian signals. Look before you cross the road.
  • Be alert to engine noise or backup lights on cars when in parking lots and near on-street parking spaces.

Bicycle Safety Tips

  • All bicyclists should wear properly fitted bicycle helmets every time they ride.
  • Bicyclists are considered vehicle operators; they are required to obey the same rules of the road as other vehicle operators, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
  • When cycling in the street, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
  • Bicyclists should increase their visibility to drivers by wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing during the day, dawn, and dusk. To be noticed when riding in the dark, use a front light and a red reflector or flashing rear light, and use retro-reflective tape or markings on equipment or clothing.
Bicyclists
  • At every intersection and driveway, keep a careful eye out for motorists turning right in front of you - you may be going faster than they think. Also, look for motorists turning left across your path - drivers are looking for gaps in traffic and may not be paying attention to anything other than motor vehicles.

Trail Etiquette for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Whenever possible, stay on the right side of the trail so faster traffic can pass on the left; make sure kids and pets stay with you and out of harm's way.
  • Call out that you are passing, especially if you are on a bike or scooter, to allow time for other users to get children or pets to the right side of the trail.
  • Keep your pet on a leash. Carry a bag and clean up after your pet - complimentary bags are provided at waste stations throughout the trail system.
  • Cyclists must observe a 15 mph speed limit while riding on the trails.
  • Cyclists should always yield to pedestrians and equestrians.