Watching for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Pedestrian and cyclist deaths have risen in recent years. Most happen in cities, on roads without sidewalks, and after dark. Drivers have the most power to prevent them by slowing down, looking carefully and giving people room.

• All drivers
• Pedestrians
• Cyclists

Speed is the key

A pedestrian hit at 20 mph usually survives. At 40 mph, most don’t. Slow down in neighborhoods, downtown areas, near schools and parks, and anywhere people are walking.

For drivers

• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, marked or unmarked, as your state law requires.
• Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk; someone may be crossing in front of it.
• Before turning right on red, stop and look right for pedestrians and cyclists coming from that side, not just left for traffic.
• Give cyclists room when passing. Many states require at least 3 feet; more is better at higher speeds.
• Check for cyclists before opening your door. The “Dutch reach” (opening the door with your far hand) makes you turn and look.
• Look for people in driveways and parking lots, especially children. See Backing.
• Be extra alert at night and in bad weather, when people are harder to see.

For pedestrians

• Use sidewalks; where there are none, walk facing traffic, as far from it as possible.
• Cross at crosswalks or intersections, and make eye contact with drivers.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a light at night.
• Put the phone down and take out earbuds when crossing.

For cyclists

• Wear a helmet.
• Ride with traffic, follow signals and signs, and signal turns.
• Use front and rear lights at night (often required by law) and reflective gear.
• Ride predictably, and watch for opening car doors and turning vehicles.
• Never ride alongside a truck at an intersection. See Truck Blind Spots.

Workers on foot

Flaggers, road crews, crossing guards, delivery workers and utility crews are pedestrians at work. Slow down and follow their instructions. See Driving Through Work Zones.

Last updated: October 1, 2026