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Always ride in the same direction as traffic. Riding against traffic is illegal and unsafe – even when in a bike lane. |
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Yield when entering a roadway. Like an automobile, you must yield to vehicles that have the right-of-way. |
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Always signal before turns and lane changes. Look to make sure there is room in the next lane, then point (with your arm fully extended) in the direction you intend to travel. Once you have signaled, make your turn or lane change. |
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Choose the best way to make a left turn:
• As a vehicle: if the left turn lane is clear, signal left, move into the left turn lane and turn left while yielding to oncoming traffic.
• As a pedestrian: Ride straight across the intersection to the crosswalk on the far side. Then get off your bike and walk it across the street. |
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Do not pass on the right. It is illegal and dangerous to pass on the right side of a vehicle (except when you are in your own lane, such as when using a bike lane or right turn lane). At traffic signals, wait in the line of traffic. |
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Use the proper lane position. Ride in the right-most lane or portion of the lane that goes to your destination. On a multi-lane one-way road, it is legal to ride on the left side of the left lane. |
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Use caution when riding in roundabouts. Experienced bicyclists can ride through a roundabout like a motor vehicle. Bicyclists must yield to traffic in the roundabout and establish themselves in the lane. In multi-lane roundabouts, choose your lane as you enter the roundabout based on your exit. Less experienced bicyclists can use sidewalks and crosswalks but must yield to pedestrians. |
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Ride predictably. Whenever possible, ride in a straight line and avoid weaving in and out of parking areas. Leave adequate space between you and parked cars so that an open door will not obstruct your path. |
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Watch for road hazards. Use caution around sewer grates, utility covers, pavement cracks in the direction of travel, and oil, gravel and ice on the roadway. Cross railroad tracks at right angles and watch for other traffic. |
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Be courteous to pedestrians.* When on trails and paths, ride at a speed appropriate for trail/path conditions. Yield to pedestrians, and warn when you approach from behind. |
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Use caution when riding in groups. Make sure each rider knows how to ride safely and legally. Each rider should observe traffic laws – not simply follow the rider in front of them. |
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Ride defensively. Be aware of the traffic around you. Continuously scan for vehicles that may turn unexpectedly. Look for people in parked cars that may suddenly open vehicle doors or pull out of parking spaces. |
