With daylight saving time ending on Sunday, November 2, Ride Together Pierce urges Central and South Pierce County residents to keep each other safe by following the rules of the road and being aware of other travelers. Travelers should give themselves a few extra minutes to get to their destination in the safest manner.

WALKERS:

o Before crossing the street, stop at the curb and look both directions – left, right, then left again.

o Use crosswalks and wait for the pedestrian walk indication at traffic signals.

o Make sure drivers and bicyclists are stopping for you before crossing the street.

o Carry or wear light colored or reflective items and carry a flashlight to see and be seen.

o Waiting for a bus? Wave your hand, cell phone flashlight to catch the bus driver’s attention, especially in the dark.

BICYCLISTS:

o Be cautious of road conditions: Bike tires have less traction in wet conditions. Avoid riding through puddles as you cannot see what is under the surface.

o Wear a helmet, use a white light on the front of your bike and either a red light or red reflector on the rear, as required by law.

o Follow all traffic signals and laws and yield to pedestrians.

o Bike in the same direction of traffic unless the street is signed otherwise.

o Carry or wear light colored or reflective items to be better seen.

DRIVERS:

o Before driving, make sure your windows and mirrors are clear of leaves, frost, or dirt.

o Turn on your headlights.

o Drive for the road conditions which means slow down, take your time or leave earlier to allow for extra time.

o Always be scanning the road and put away any distractions. Consider placing your phone in the back seat or glove box. 

o Stop at intersections to allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the road within a marked or unmarked crosswalk.

o While passing a bicyclist, move into the other lane when possible or leave at least three feet.

o Know that bicyclists can legally choose to ride on the path, bike lane, shoulder or travel lane as it suits their safety needs.

o Check your blind spots and crosswalks for bicyclists and pedestrians before making a turn.

For more tips and resources, visit RideTogetherPierce.com