🚲 Walking and Biking Safely

How to Walk and Bike Safely in U.S. Cities

Walking and biking are practical ways to travel, but understanding basic road customs helps keep you safe.

🚶‍♂️ Pedestrian Basics

• Use Sidewalks: Always walk on sidewalks when available. If no sidewalk exists, walk facing oncoming traffic on the far edge of the road.
• Marked Crosswalks: Cross streets at corners or designated crosswalks where drivers expect pedestrians.
• Eye Contact: Make direct eye contact with drivers before stepping into a street to confirm they see you.

🚴‍♂️ Cyclist Road Rules

• Ride With Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic on the right side of the road or in designated bike lanes.
• Use Hand Signals: Signal clearly with your left arm before making turns or stopping.
• Watch for Car Doors: Maintain a safe distance from parked cars to avoid opening doors.

How Traffic Signals and Crosswalks Work

U.S. cities use standardized electronic signals and road markings to control traffic flow.

🚦 Pedestrian Crosswalk Signals

• Walk Symbol (Walking Person): Safe to begin crossing; check for turning vehicles before stepping off the curb.
• Flashing "Don't Walk" (Hand Symbol): Do not start crossing. If you are already in the street, finish crossing safely.
• Countdown Timers: Displays the remaining seconds to complete your crossing before traffic starts moving.
• Push Buttons: Press the curb button once to activate the walk cycle at signalized intersections.

🚴‍♀️ Bike Signals and Right-of-Way

• Bike Signals & Lanes: Follow dedicated bicycle traffic lights or green pavement markings when available.
• Standard Traffic Lights: If no bike signal is present, cyclists must obey standard red, yellow, and green traffic lights just like cars.
• Turning Vehicles: Drivers turning right across bike lanes must yield to cyclists traveling straight.

Helmet and Safety Gear Basics for Biking

Wearing proper safety gear dramatically reduces the risk of injury during rides.

🪖 Proper Helmet Fitting

• Certification: Wear a certified helmet (look for a CPSC label inside).
• Fit & Straps: The helmet should sit level across your forehead (two finger-widths above your eyebrows) with side straps forming a tight "V" under your ears.
• Replacement: Replace any helmet that has been involved in a crash or shows cracks.

💡 Lights, Reflectors, and Maintenance

• Front & Rear Lights: Use a white headlight and a red taillight when riding in low light or at night.
• Pre-Ride Check: Test your brakes, ensure tire pressure is adequate, and check that the chain moves smoothly before riding.

How to Travel Safely in Winter or at Night

Darkness, snow, and rain lower visibility and increase stopping distances for vehicles.

🌙 Nighttime Visibility

• Wear bright or reflective clothing, armbands, or a reflective vest over your coat.
• Carry a small flashlight or use your phone light when walking on dimly lit streets.
• Stick to well-lit main routes and avoid unlit paths or alleys.

❄️ Winter Conditions

• Walk with shorter, wider steps on icy sidewalks to maintain balance.
• Avoid sudden turns or hard braking when biking on wet or icy roads.
• Dress in breathable layers to stay warm without overheating while active.

✔ Summary Checklist

Use this quick checklist to stay safe while walking or biking:

1. Walking Habits

• Cross at Corners: Use crosswalks, press push buttons, and wait for the "Walk" signal.
• Stay Visible: Wear reflective items and make eye contact with drivers at intersections.

2. Biking Rules

• Follow Traffic Directions: Ride with traffic, obey stop signs/red lights, and use hand signals.
• Wear a Fitted Helmet: Keep your helmet level and secure on every ride.

3. Gear & Weather Prep

• Equip Bike Lights: Use a white front light and red rear light after dark.
• Adjust for Weather: Take short steps on ice, avoid sudden stops, and wear warm layers in winter.