Bicycle Safety For All Cyclists

The UCSC campus is located in a beautiful natural environment surrounded by natural preserves and wildlife. Riding on the primary bikeways and shared roads can present some challenges which require special attention; often bicyclists see deer, ground squirrels, snakes, and maybe a bobcat crossing the Bike Path. Gravel, loose dirt or sand can also be present and produce possible hazardous conditions when traveling at excessive speeds.

Of course, nature doesn't provide the only surprises. Many bike routes on-campus and around town feature unpredictable behavior by drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists – be it a sophomore with an iPod crossing Steinhart Drive, or a jogger running her dog along West Cliff. Whether it's ground squirrels darting across the Bike Path or drivers opening their car door in front of you, an aware cyclist is ready for the unexpected. And, by behaving predictably yourself, you increase your own safety in all sorts of conditions.

One more thing about Santa Cruz: it's not flat! For the experienced rider and the novice alike, the hills of Santa Cruz will raise your heart-rate going uphill and your speed going down. It's all too easy to push your envelope too far – making the unexpected happen faster than ever! By controlling your speeds when traveling downhill and following the bike tips below, you'll enjoy the ride and get where you want to go!

Get a copy of Bike Safe Tips from TAPS pdf.

Choosing a Safe Route When Cycling

When traveling to the campus through the City of Santa Cruz, take time to plan your route to avoid heavily congested areas. Please keep in mind that cyclists need to obey the same traffic laws as motorists. The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission produces a very detailed map of bike routes that is available through TAPS by calling 831-459-2190.

Special attention should be given when traveling on roads with heavy trucks especially on Mission Street.

Get more information on suggested safe routes to the UCSC campus and a safe route to the Westside Bike Shuttle pick-up location, including detailed maps.

Tips for Safe Cycling from Ecology Action of Santa Cruz

Mission Street is a major trucking route: it is best to minimize or avoid biking there. Use alternative routes such as King Street, California, or Seaside. Many Mission Street businesses are bike-accessible by side streets to Mission.

• Communicate to truck drivers with hand signals.
• Be predictable – follow the traffic law. Because bicycles are vehicles, truck drivers expect cyclists to obey the same traffic laws as motorists.
• If cycling behind a truck, stay back and position your bike slightly right within the lane so you can have a clear view of the truck’s mirrors. If you can see the driver, they can see you!
• The bigger the truck
- the larger the blind spots
- the more room required to maneuver
- the longer it takes to stop
- the more likely you are going to be the loser in a collision

• In city traffic, pay special attention to a truck’s turn signals. If a truck is turning right, don’t even think about cutting around on the right.
• At 55 mph, it takes a truck 300 feet to stop (plus reaction time). Don’t pull in front of a large truck and suddenly slow down or stop – the driver can’t stop quickly enough to avoid a collision.
• When a semi-trailer passes, don’t assume the road is clear: there may be a second trailer or “pup.”
• Sun glare during early morning and late afternoon hours make cyclists hard to see.
• Be visible – wear bright clothes.

More References and Safety Oriented Materials

How to Fit a Bicycle Helmet

NHTSA's Seven Smart Routes To Bicycle Safety for Adults (pdf)

NHTSA's Bicycle Safety Tips For Adults Video

CDOT Transportation Bicycle Safety Guidelines and California Law

League of American Bicyclists General Information on Bicycling

SCCRTC Bike Maps and Information