As the summer season rolls in once again and schools come out of session, it is important to recognize the increased need for all road users to focus on safety. Bicycling and walking, whether for transportation or leisure, tend to be more common during summer months. In light of this, provided below is a refresher on various safety tips that drivers, bikers, and pedestrians can utilize in order to prevent injury or other conflicts on the road.

Drivers

  • Follow NJ’s Safe Passing Law, allowing at least 4 feet between the vehicle and a vulnerable road user.
  • Respect that all NJ bicyclists on a roadway are granted all rights of a motor vehicle driver and may “take the lane” by positioning themselves in the center of narrower lanes.
  • Respect dedicated bike lanes by not stopping, idling, parking, or otherwise blocking them, instead treating them like any roadway that also requires looking both ways before crossing.
  • Slow down, especially at intersections and when crossing signals are visible.
  • Stop and stay stopped for crossing pedestrians.
  • Use extra caution when reversing and be aware of any blind spots, especially near driveways.
  • Just focus on driving. Using a phone to text, talk, or look at a map takes your attention away from the road. Even hands-free devices can be distracting.
  • Do not leave children or animals unattended in parked vehicles, as they are increasingly vulnerable to heatstroke.
  • Check your vehicles tires, cooling system, fluid levels, batteries, etc. according to this guide.

Bicyclists

  • Perform an “ABC Quick Check” before each ride to ensure your bike’s tires and mechanisms are working properly.
  • Wear a properly-fitted helmet every time; it’s the law for those under 17.
  • Utilize hand signals to communicate with other road users.
  • Obey the rules of the road, including riding on the right side with traffic.
  • Follow state regulations on lights, brakes, and more.
  • Look to your local regulations to check whether riding on sidewalks is allowed.
  • Keep in mind that bicyclists must yield right of way to pedestrians.
  • Stay hydrated; consider installing a basket or a water bottle cage on your bike.

Pedestrians

  • Utilize sidewalks when available, otherwise walk facing traffic.
  • Cross a street at a marked crosswalk, otherwise at a corner.
  • Look left, right, then left again before crossing streets and bike lanes.
  • Protect from sunburn by applying sunscreen before sun exposure and making sure to reapply at least every two hours.

Have a safe and fun summer!