Walking and Biking Safety: Essential Tips That Could Save Your Life
Many individuals overlook the fundamentals of road safety, believing they are self-evident. However, these simple practices can truly be lifesaving. Make sure you avoid crossing the street at unexpected spots for drivers. Always utilize sidewalks, bike paths, as well as designated pedestrian crossings. Ensure you're easily spotted by using lights when biking, and remember to raise your head from your phone while walking.
We often hear about defensive driving — that is, safe driving habits designed to protect ourselves and others on the road, like slowing down in adverse weather conditions or signaling before changing lanes. But have you ever considered the concept of defensive walking and cycling?
Defensive walking and biking are vital aspects of ensuring safety for both pedestrians and cyclists. According to Ryan Sharp, a transportation expert at Alta, a transportation design firm, it's all about maintaining awareness of your surroundings and being conscious of potential dangers. As a pedestrian or cyclist, if you're involved in an accident with a vehicle, the likelihood of suffering serious injuries is significantly higher.
In a staggering statistic shared by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 7,100 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents in the United States in 2024. Moreover, more than 1,000 cyclists were reported to have been struck and killed in recent years. However, many of these fatalities can be avoided. Sharp, along with Julia Kite-Laidlaw, a dedicated advocate for pedestrian and cyclist safety at the National Safety Council, outlines crucial do's and don'ts for those on foot or biking.
1. DO look in all directions: left, right, and behind you. "Often, the most significant risks for pedestrians crossing at intersections come from behind them," Sharp explains. It's essential to have a 360-degree view before you start walking or biking across any roadway. For instance, a driver might be focusing solely on oncoming traffic while trying to turn, completely unaware of your presence in the crosswalk.
2. DO be visible and predictable. "Assuming that a driver can see you is a dangerous game," cautions Kite-Laidlaw. A substantial number of pedestrian fatalities occur in the dark, particularly in areas without sidewalks where individuals might not expect foot traffic. To ensure you're seen, always walk along sidewalks or designated walking paths. If these aren't available, position yourself on the street shoulder facing oncoming traffic so you can see the vehicles approaching.
If you're cycling at night, enhance your visibility by using white lights at the front and red lights at the back of your bike. Even if you technically have the right-of-way, always make an effort to establish eye contact with drivers. Look for other cues, like a driver slowing down, to confirm they see you.
3. DO utilize sidewalks, bike paths, and safe crossings whenever possible. Most fatalities among pedestrians and cyclists occur away from intersections, particularly when darting across streets without crosswalks. Therefore, prioritize using designated paths meant for safety. Some urban areas have walk and bike signals that activate before the general stoplights, granting walkers and bikers additional time to enter the intersection, increasing visibility and asserting their right of way.
4. DON'T allow distractions during your travels—especially while crossing streets. Avoid engaging with your phone or listening to music and podcasts through headphones. It's imperative to be alert to approaching traffic and aware of your surroundings while walking or biking.
5. DON'T disregard users on e-scooters and e-bikes. These motorized vehicles can be faster than traditional bicycles, thus presenting potential hazards to pedestrians and cyclists alike. Since many cities lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate these newer modes of transport, you may find yourself sharing space with e-bikes and scooters on sidewalks and roadways. While it’s natural to feel apprehensive about their speed, it's worth noting that data indicates collisions between e-bike riders and pedestrians aren't as prevalent as one might fear.
6. DO wear your helmet correctly while cycling. Proper helmet usage can greatly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident. Ensure your helmet sits snugly above your eyebrows, approximately one to two finger-widths away. The side straps should form a V shape under and slightly in front of your ears on both sides, with a chin strap that is buckled and snug.
7. DO use hand signals when cycling as a means of communicating with others on the road. This is simple: extend your left arm straight for a left turn, and for a right turn, do the same with your right arm. Alternatively, to signal a right turn, you can also raise your left arm to form an L shape.
8. DON'T jeopardize your safety just because you believe you have the right of way. While drivers are indeed responsible for their driving, road safety is a shared responsibility. "Years of collecting data show that expecting all people to behave correctly on the road is not a reliable strategy," explains Sharp. By taking charge of your safety, you contribute to a safer road environment for everyone involved.
This article was refined by Meghan Keane, with visuals by Beck Harlan. We welcome your thoughts! Feel free to leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823 or send an email to LifeKit@npr.org.
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