Bicycle Safety Month During COVID-19

May 15, 2020
SUBMITTED BY LISA PETERSON

May is Bicycle Safety Month and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is encouraging those out walking, driving or riding their bikes to look out for one another while practicing social distancing measures.

Bicyclist in Pinole, CA

Bicyclist in Pinole, CA.

Since the implementation of California’s stay at home order in March, many communities have seen less traffic on the road and more people out walking and biking. Riding a bicycle is an allowable activity these days and a great option for transportation and exercise. And with more bicyclists on the road, it’s more important than ever to keep them safe.

Safety Tips for People Driving

Even with the stay at home order still in place, many of us are on the road for travel due to our essential jobs and to access essential services. Remember these tips to keep people biking safe.

  • Share the road. Drive with an understanding that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.

  • Do not drive in the bike lane. It is illegal to drive in a bike lane except for 200 feet prior to making a legal turn.

  • Provide adequate space. The law requires a minimum of three feet when passing someone riding a bike.

  • Double check. Check twice for people riding bikes at intersections and yield as directed by traffic signs and signals.

  • Exercise the Dutch Reach. Before exiting a vehicle, use your far hand to open car doors while cautiously turning around to watch out for oncoming people on bikes.

  • Avoid distractions and never drive impaired.

  • Drive predictably.

  • Listen carefully. Be aware of what’s going on around you by reducing audible distractions. It’s illegal to wear headphones or a headset in both ears while driving.

  • Drive at reasonable speeds. Even though there may be fewer vehicles on the road in these times, vehicles moving at high speeds are still dangerous to all road users, especially bicyclists and pedestrians.

  • Keep outside trips to a minimum; they should only be for an essential job or to get essential items.

Safety Tips for Bicyclists

OTS has the following tips to keep you and your family safe while biking.

  • Always wear a helmet and never ride impaired.

  • Follow social distancing measures and maintain at least six feet of physical space between other riders and those out walking.

  • Be visible and predictable.

  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping.

  • Rules of the road still apply: Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow moving vehicle.

  • Keep outside trips to a minimum; they should only be for an essential job, to get essential items or exercise.

Bicycling During COVID-19 Resources

While some events, trainings and safety campaigns have been cancelled or postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still many ways to participate in Bicycle Safety Month this May. Explore our sampling of resources from traffic safety partners and advocacy organizations throughout the state and beyond!

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