Bikes & EScooters

Travel with Care By Bike or Motorized Scooters

As we learned way back in our training wheels days, riding a bike takes focus and balance. As cyclists, we are vulnerable on the road and therefore it is imperative to be aware of our surroundings and avoid putting ourselves in harm's way. The emergence and popularity of motorized scooters, such as Lime and Bird scooters, means we all need to be aware of the safety issues that may arise with these new means of transit. Scooters should obey the same rules of the road as cyclists.

Below are a few tips to follow to keep you and those around you safe:
  • Wear a helmet — This is a no brainer. (You see what we did there?)
  • Don't text or talk on your phone while riding a bike.
  • Do signal before you make a turn — How to hand signal.
  • Ride two abreast or less — This allows cars to safely pass around you.
  • Yield to crosswalks & pedestrians— Cyclists and scooters are vulnerable to motorists but pedestrians are vulnerable to all of the above.
  • Ride with the flow of traffic — You wouldn't expect to see a car driving opposite against traffic, same theory applies to bikes and scooters.
  • Use lights when riding in the dark.
  • Take the bike lane when possible — If a bike lane exists, use it.
  • Take caution when riding on a multipurpose bike trail.
  • Obey signs & laws — It's also helpful to know the laws before you ride. The laws for cycling and motorists are not always the same. For a list of cycling laws click here.
  • Don't obstruct sidewalks — Pedestrians need the sidewalks clear so they can safely walk.
  • Be aware — Many accidents involving motorists and cyclists happen because the driver did not see the rider. Fifty-eight percent of bike fatalities happen at non-intersections so it's best to ride aware. If a car is turning left and they're looking right for other cars, do they see you approaching on their left? That type of awareness just might save your life someday.

Guidelines and Tips

Respect the Road and All of Its Users

Respect the Road
and All of Its Users

Whether you're a walker, bicyclist or
driver, be kind and considerate. Share the road.

Obey Signs and Lights

Obey Signs
and Lights

Bicyclists are required to follow the rules of all traffic signs and lights.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1000

Yield to Pedestrians

Yield to
Pedestrians

Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are in or approaching a sidewalk or crosswalk.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1004

Ride with the Flow of Traffic

Ride With the
Flow of Traffic

When riding your bike on a road, ride the same direction as traffic.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1003, A

Ride Two Abreast or Less

Ride Two Abreast
or Less

When necessary, fall into a single line so as not to impede the reasonable flow of traffic.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1006

Take the Lane for Safety

Take the Lane
for Safety

It's OK to take the entire lane when obstructions or safety issues are present.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1003, A, 3, 4

Light Up the Night

Light Up
the Night

To ensure that you are visible at night, make sure your bike is equipped with a white light on the front and a red reflector on the rear.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1010

It's OK to Leave the Bike Lane

It's OK to Leave
the Bike Lane

It's OK to ride outside the bike lane. Make sure you safely merge and always signal when changing lanes.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1016, A

Don't Obstruct Sidewalks

Don't Obstruct
Sidewalks

Never park your bike in an area that prevents walkers from using a sidewalk.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1008

Stop Behind the Crosswalk

Stop Behind
the Crosswalk

Leave crosswalks free and clear when pedestrians are present.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1016, F

Don't Pass at Crosswalks

Don't Pass
at Crosswalks

Never overtake or pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
TITLE 37, CHAPTER 11, SECTION 1101, C

Travel with Care Partners

Together we can promote a safer city for all user groups. These organizations, and others, are leading the charge for friendlier roadways.

Walk Bike Tulsa
INCOG
Humble Sons Bike Company
Bike Club
Bike Tulsa
This Machine