Metro Bike Safety Tips

Metro encourages bicycling as a transportation mode, and we want to help you get to your destination safely! Below are some tips for sharing the road. Laws regarding the operation of a bicycle can be found in the California DMV Vehicle Code.

On-Street Bike Safety

• Obey traffic signs, signals and follow roadway lane markings.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Use hand signals before turning, stopping, or changing lanes; make eye contact with drivers.
• Ride in a straight line and do not weave between parked cars.
• Be alert: watch for opening doors from parked cars.
• Pay attention to vehicles that may enter your path at intersections and driveways.
• Don’t pass vehicles on the right.
• Use extra caution when it is raining and allow extra time to stop.
• Avoid road hazards such as sewer grates, road debris, manholes, etc.
• Always yield to pedestrians.
• Use lights, reflectors, and wear reflective clothing, particularly at night.
• Wear a helmet; persons under 18 years of age are required to by law.
• Wearing headphones on both ears when riding is prohibited by law.
• Keep your bike properly maintained to operate safely and efficiently.
• Carry repair tools, a spare inner tube, patches and a pump.

Safe Cycling Outside the Bike Lane

Bicyclists may need to take the full lane to safely navigate certain traffic situations. Section CVC 21202 of the California DMV Vehicle Code sets out several situations in which bicyclists are permitted to leave the “as far right as practicable” position on the road.

• to avoid obstacles and unsafe conditions, including the door zone of parallel parked cars
• to pass another bicyclist, bus, car, etc.
• to prepare for a left turn
• to avoid an area where right turns are made
• when traveling as fast or faster than other traffic at that time and place
• when the lane is too narrow to share with a vehicle

Cycling Safely Around Buses

• Be aware. Pass to the left of the bus. Buses frequently pull over at stops and merge with traffic when picking up and dropping off passengers.   
• Yield. When bus operators signal their intent to change course while approaching a stop or merging back in with traffic, allow the bus to do so and give it plenty of room.
• Be seen. There are large blind spots that make it difficult for operators to see you. Stay in view of the bus operator, particularly their mirrors where he/she can see you.

Cycling Safely Around Trains

• Be cautious when approaching railroad tracks. Tracks can be slippery.
• Cross railroad tracks at a right angle. Avoid leaning and turning because tires can easily slip on tracks.
• Obey signs and signals at train crossings. Never attempt to cross when crossing lights and arms are activated.

Safe Cycling Etiquette on Bike Paths

• Be courteous.
• Yield to other trail users, ride more slowly when crowded.
• Use caution around pedestrians, elderly and families with children.
• Always pass on left, and use an audible signal when doing so.
• Yield when entering or crossing other trails.
• Do not block the trail.