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

• 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.

Yolo County General E-Bike Safety Information 

E-bikes (electric bicycles) are a healthy and sustainable alternative transportation option for both commuting and recreation. As the number of e-bike riders grows in Yolo County, understanding safe riding practices becomes increasingly important. While e-bikes may feel similar to traditional bicycles, they are heavier, can accelerate more quickly, and require additional awareness when riding, braking, and maneuvering. Riders should take time to get familiar with their e-bike before riding in traffic or around others. Learn your local e-bike regulations and explore available online and hands-on training resources to build a safer e-bike community in Yolo County. 

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  

• 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.

• 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.