Bicycles & Pedestrians

Many Missourians rely on non-motorized transportation options such as walking and bicycling. While both provide physical and health benefits, they also have the potential for serious or fatal injuries if involved with a crash with a motor vehicle.

Pedestrians and bicyclists need to understand that they have primary responsibility for their own safety. The motoring public also has a responsibility to share the road in a safe and courteous manner with these vulnerable road users.

Be a safe Pedestrian

Basic pedestrian safety includes:

• Obey signs and signals.
• Walk, don’t run.
• Use sidewalks. If you must walk in the street, walk single file, facing traffic and stay close to the edge of the road.
• Cross streets only at intersections or crosswalks.
• Don’t assume drivers will stop for you. Unless you are in a crosswalk, the driver usually has the right of way.
• Lighten up at night. Wear white or light colors, reflective strips and carry a flashlight.

Be a Safe Bicyclist

According to state statutes, bike riders must obey the same laws and rules of the road as vehicle drivers. Stop and check for traffic before entering any street. Be aware of any vehicles around you.

• Always ride on the right with traffic flow.
• Use caution at intersections
• Steer clear of parked cars
• Respect pedestrians and yield to them in crosswalks and on sidewalks.

Your bike should also be equipped for safety. This means adding safety features such as:

• A rearview mirror
• A bell or horn
• A headlight and taillight or comparable reflectors