To reduce the number of persons killed and injured in crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists through educational opportunities for all families in all communities regardless of social-economic conditions, race, ethnicity, gender, ages, and abilities.

Walking and biking are healthy, fun, and sustainable ways to travel — but people walking and biking are among the most vulnerable on the road. The Bike & Pedestrian Safety Program promotes safe walking and biking through education, community events, and collaboration with schools, libraries, and local agencies. 

• Safety Presentations

• Bike Rodeos

• Helmet Fitting and Distribution

• Community Walk/Bike Audits 

• Crossing Guard Trainings

• Pedestrians

  • Be predictable. Be aware of approaching vehicles and practice due care.

  • Be visible. Make it easier for drivers to see you – wear light colors, reflective material and carry a flashlight.

  • Be extra careful crossing at night when it is harder to see or when crossing busier streets with more lanes and higher speed limits.

• Bicyclists

  • Use hand signals.

  • Always use lights at night – at least front white light and rear red reflector – and wear a helmet.

  • Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

  • Use the bike lane, if available, unless making a left turn, passing, or approaching a place where a right turn is allowed.

  • Stop for pedestrians. Bicyclists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or within unmarked crosswalks at intersections.

• Drivers

  • Follow the speed limit.

  • Slow down at intersections.

  • Give pedestrians a brake at crosswalks and unmarked corners.

  • Respect bicyclists and give them space when passing. As of Jan. 1, 2023, California law  requires drivers to change lanes—when possible—to safely pass bicyclists.

  • If there is not enough room to pass a bicyclist, be patient and wait until it’s safe.

California law requires all bicyclists to follow specific safety standards to ensure everyone's safety on the road. 

• Maintain Control of Your Bicycle
  • Choose a bicycle that fits your height and riding style, and adjust it properly.
  • A well-fitted bicycle is easier to control and more comfortable to ride
  • Inspect your bicycle regularly to ensure it's in safe, working condition.
  • California law prohibits riding a bicycle without working brakes (California Vehicle Code (CVC) §21201(a)).
• Wearing a Helmet
  • Always wear a properly fitted helmet and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjustment. Helmets help prevent serious head injuries.
  • California law requires all riders under age 18 to wear a bicycle helmet while on public roads (CVC §21212).
• Lights and Reflectors 
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase visibility.
  • Bicycles operated at night must be equipped with the following (CVC §21201(d)):
    • A white front light visible from at least 300 feet.
    • A red rear reflector or flashing red light visible from at least 500 feet.
    • White or yellow reflectors on each pedal or on the rider’s shoes or ankles, visible from 200 feet.
    • A white or yellow reflector on the front wheel, and a white or red reflector on the rear wheel (or reflectorized tires). 
  • Use mirrors only as a supplemental aid, and always look over your shoulder before turning or changing lanes. 

Source: State of California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Bicyclists & Pedestrians