Rules of the Road

Bicycles

• Bicycles are defined as vehicles by NC law and as such are subject to vehicle traffic laws (Definition of Vehicle)
• Bicycles must be equipped with lights from sunset to sunrise or when not visible from a distance of at least 300 feet (Required Lighting Law)
• Bicycles should be ridden on the right side of the road just and operate just like a car when on the roadway (Bikes on Roads). A bicyclist should always use hand signals to indicate turning and stopping. When a bicyclist decides it is safer or more efficient to use a sidewalk or shoulder instead of the roadway, the bicyclist should keep a careful lookout and act predictably by communicating with traffic (Hand Signals). 
• Bicyclists should wear a helmet at all times. It is required by law for anyone under the age of 16 to wear a helmet on a bicycle. (Helmets).  
• Drivers of motor vehicles may move left of the center line on a roadway, when clear of oncoming traffic, to pass a bicyclist. Motor vehicles must give cyclists a minimum of 4 feet when passing. (Passing A Bike)

Pedestrians

• Pedestrians should follow the directions of crosswalks signals or traffic control signals. (Pedestrian Signals)
• Where there are no traffic control signals including driveways, alleyways, and parking lots, the pedestrian always has the right of way. Pedestrians should still make eye contact with drivers to be sure they are seen. (Pedestrian right-of-way)
• When a sidewalk is provided, the pedestrian should not walk on the roadway. When a sidewalk is not provided, the pedestrian should walk against traffic. (Walking along road)

Be A Looker

As a bicyclist, pedestrian, or driver, you have a responsibility to keep yourself and others safe. Please “Be A Looker”  stay safe while biking and walking.

• Be predictable
• Ride your bike with traffic
• Make eye contact with drivers
• Make yourself visible
• View more tips

Riding During COVID 19

We understand how important bicycling is to the Wilmington Area; however, it is important to still practice social distancing and other safety measures while on your bicycle. The League of American Bicyclists website has some great resources you are encouraged to view before you ride.

Here are some important tips we wanted to highlight for you:

• Do not go on a bike ride with anyone outside your household.
• If you are biking to the grocery store or to another essential business, go above and beyond to prevent the spread of germs. Carry sanitary wipes and hand sanitizer, clean any part of the bicycle you touch with your hands, and lock your bike at least six feet away from others.
• Don’t ride risky. We must do all we can to alleviate hospital and doctor visits during this time. Ride at a comfortable speed, wear a helmet and use lights, and obey the rules of the road.