Bicycling is a great way to stay active, commute, and explore San José. Whether you ride on city streets, bike paths, or neighborhood roads, following simple safety practices can help prevent crashes and serious injuries. Safe riding starts with being prepared, staying visible, and sharing the road responsibly with others.

Wear a Helmet

Helmets can reduce the risk of serious head injuries, but they only work when worn correctly and fit properly. Replace your helmet after a crash or if damaged. Helmet sizes can vary between manufacturers. Follow the steps below to make sure your helmet fits correctly.

Helmet Fit Checklist

• Adjust the sizing pads or fit ring until the helmet feels snug.
• Position the helmet level on your head (not tilted back), with the front edge one to two finger widths above your eyebrows.
• Adjust the side straps so they form a “V” shape under and slightly in front of your ears, keeping the helmet secure.
• Center the buckle on the chin strap under your chin.
• Tighten the chin strap until it is snug. You should only be able to fit one to two fingers between your chin and the strap.
• Watch NHTSA’s Fitting a Bike Helmet video for more guidance.

For children: Make sure the helmet fits properly and that young riders wear a helmet every time they ride. Practice riding skills in a safe area before riding near traffic.

Before You Ride

Before starting your ride, make sure you and your bike are ready. A bike that fits you, working equipment, and a planned route can help you ride safely.

• Ride a bike that fits you and feels comfortable. A bike that is too big or too small can be harder to control.
• Check that your bike is working properly. Make sure the brakes, tires, and chain are in good condition.
• Adjust your seat for proper control. Set it to the proper height and make sure it is securely locked in place.
• Secure loose clothing. Keep shoelaces, pant legs, and other items away from the bike chain.
• Plan your route before riding. Choose routes with less traffic and slower speeds when possible. Bike lanes, bike paths, and lower-traffic streets may provide safer options.

Sharing the Road

When riding on streets, stay alert and ride predictably. Following traffic rules and watching for hazards can help prevent crashes.

Follow the Rules of the Road

• Ride in the direction of traffic.
• Follow traffic signs, signals, and road markings.
• Follow the same traffic laws as other road users.
• Use hand signals before turning or changing lanes.
• Yield when required.
• Avoid sudden lane changes.

Stay Alert

• Ride as if drivers may not see you.
• Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions.
• Do not use your phone while riding.
• Avoid wearing headphones that make it difficult to hear traffic.
• Watch for hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, opening car doors, turning vehicles, pedestrians, and uneven pavement.
• Avoid riding beside large vehicles, particularly near intersections, where you may be hidden in their blind spots.

Be Careful at Intersections

• Slow down and be prepared to stop at intersections.
• Watch for vehicles turning or pulling out of driveways.
• Make eye contact with drivers when possible.
• Do not assume a driver sees you before crossing or turning.

Be Visible

• Wear bright clothing during the day to improve visibility. Wear reflective gear at night or in low-light conditions.
• Use a white front light and red rear light when riding at night or when visibility is poor to help others see you.
• Be extra cautious during early morning, evening, and foggy conditions.

Riding on Sidewalks and Shared Paths

Sidewalks and shared paths can be useful for some riders, but they require extra caution. Drivers may not expect bicyclists crossing driveways or intersections from a sidewalk, so stay alert and be prepared to stop. If you do ride on a sidewalk:

• Check local laws. Sidewalk riding may not be allowed in some areas. In San José, sidewalk riding is generally allowed, but it is prohibited in certain areas of Downtown San José.
• Watch for pedestrians, children, and pets. Slow down and give people walking plenty of space.
• Let others know when you are passing. Say "On your left" or use a bell before passing pedestrians.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic when possible. This makes you more predictable and easier for drivers to see.
• Slow down at driveways and intersections. Look left, right, and left again, and be ready to stop.
• Watch for vehicles. Be careful around cars backing out of driveways or turning into driveways and side streets.
• Be prepared when the sidewalk ends. Check for traffic before entering the roadway.

E-Bike Safety

E-bikes can travel faster and accelerate more quickly than traditional bicycles. Take time to learn how your e-bike works before riding on streets, bike paths, or around pedestrians.

• Wear a properly fitted helmet every ride.
• Ride at a safe speed and slow down around pedestrians and crowded areas.
• Practice starting, stopping, and turning in a safe area before riding in traffic.
• Use extra caution when carrying passengers or riding downhill.
• Use only e-bikes, batteries, and chargers approved by the manufacturer.

Learn how to safely charge, store, and dispose of e-bike batteries on our Lithium-Ion Battery Safety webpage.