The Tracy Police Department is encouraging everyone to be alert and keep bicyclists safe. With the arrival of warmer weather, more people are biking for commuting, exercise, or recreation, making it essential for all people to look out for one another and save lives.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,105 people killed while riding a bike in 2022, and an estimated 46,195 bicyclists were injured.
Bicycling is both a popular form of transportation and recreation, and it’s important that everyone can reach their destination safely. Whether you are driving a vehicle or riding a bike, we all share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe for everyone.
The Tracy Police Department suggests the following safety tips for bicyclists and drivers:
Drivers
- Slow down and follow the speed limit. Be careful traveling through intersections.
- Look carefully for bicyclists and pedestrians before making a turn or opening a car door near streets or bike paths.
- Be patient when traveling behind a bicyclist and give them space when passing. California law requires drivers to change lanes, when possible, to pass bicyclists and always pass with at least 3 feet of space.
- Never drive distracted or impaired.
Bike Riders
- Use lights at night.
- Although not required for riders 18 and older, always wear a properly secured helmet. Helmets significantly reduce the chance of a head injury in the event of a crash.
- Bicyclists must travel in the same direction as traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.
- Yield to pedestrians, just as a driver would. Pedestrians have the right-of-way within marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
