Bicycle Safety Campaign
Bicyclist fatalities from traffic crashes are on the rise in Texas. From 2017 - 2021, 364 cyclists were killed on our streets and highways. In 2021 alone, there were 2,267 traffic crashes involving bicyclists in Texas, resulting in 92 deaths, a 12 percent increase in fatalities over the previous year. The two top contributing factors in these crashes were driver inattention and failure to yield the right of way at a stop sign.
Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers and can also be fined for violating traffic laws. They must obey all traffic signs and signals, including red lights and stop signs, ride in the same direction as traffic, use hand signals when turning or stopping, and yield the right of way. Cyclists must also have a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back of their bike when riding at night. TxDOT offers these additional safety tips to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
When riding a bike:
- Always wear a helmet.
- Use the bike lane if it’s there, or ride as near as possible to the curb.
- Be visible and safe by wearing light/reflective clothing.
- Learn more about bicycle safety.
When behind the wheel:
- Pass bikes at a safe distance and give cyclists room to ride.
- When turning, yield the right of way to cyclists.
- Obey the speed limit and pay 100% attention to the road.
Videos
- You vs. You – Cyclist (English, Español)
- You vs. You – Driver (English, Español)
- Bicyclists (English, Español)
- Drivers (English, Español)
- Bike Safe info card (Bilingual)
- Poster - Bike Lights (Bilingual)
- Poster - Pass at Safe Distance (Bilingual)
- Billboard - Bike Lights (English, Español)
- Transit Ad - Hand Signals (English, Español)