Obey Traffic Signs, Signals,
and Laws
Bicyclists must follow the same laws as motorists. Stop at
red lights and stop signs just as you would in a car. |
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Use Hand Signals
Hand signals tell others what
you intend to do. Signal as a matter of courtesy and of
self-protection. |
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Ride in a Straight Line
Ride in a straight line
and far enough from parked cars so you can avoid suddenly
opened doors. Riding in a straight line allows others to
anticipate what you are likely to do. |
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Be Visible at Night
The law requires a strong
headlight (visible from at least 300 feet ahead) and a rear
reflector or taillight (visible 500 feet from behind) at
night or when visibility is poor. Wear light-colored clothes
with reflective tape for extra protection (CVC 21201d).
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Ride with Both Hands
Ready to Brake
You may
need to stop suddenly at unexpected times. In rain, allow
three times the normal braking distance. |
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Riding on Sidewalks
May Be Prohibited
Pedestrians have the right-of-way. Give them an audible
warning before you pass. Watch for vehicles at driveways and
intersections.
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Do Not Pass on the Right
Whenever you ride, be
cautious-even when riding in a bike lane. When approaching
an intersection or driveway, be especially cautious and do
not overtake a vehicle on its right; it might turn right in
front of you.
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Never Ride Against Traffic
Bicyclists must ride
with traffic. Motorists are not looking for bicyclists
riding on the wrong side
of the road. |
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Follow Lane Markings
Do not go straight in a
lane marked right-turn-only. |
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Ride in the Middle of
Narrow Lanes
When the
lane is too narrow for a car to pass you safely, ride in the
middle of the lane. |
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Choose the Best Way to Turn Left There are two ways
to make a left turn: 1) Like an auto, signal, move into the
left lane, and turn left. Do not turn left from the right
lane. 2) Like a pedestrian, use the crosswalks and walk your
bike across the sidewalk.
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Scan the Road Around You
Look ahead and
anticipate what other traffic is likely to do. Watch
for
cars, people, pebbles, grates, etc. Learn to look back over
your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving. |
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You May Leave a Bike Lane
when overtaking a
bicycle, making a left turn, avoiding a road hazard or other
obstruction or you are afraid a motorist might turn across
your path, you may temporarily merge WITH CAUTION into the
adjacent automobile lane for safety or better visibility.
(CVC 21202) |
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