Bicycle Safety

Share the Road

Coeur d’Alene is a very active community with a large number of people using bicycles for both recreation and as an alternative means of transportation. Cyclists have the same right to use the road as cars and are far more vulnerable in the event of a collision. When a car hits another car at low speed, the results are usually mild. When a car hits a cyclist or pedestrian, even at low speeds, the results are often fatal. 

For Motorized Vehicles

When you see cyclists or pedestrians, take the time to slow down and give them plenty of room. Spending a few more seconds to be careful can save a life.

• Give bicycles at least three feet of room when overtaking them. 
• Do not honk or shout at cyclists. This is a crime, and you can be prosecuted.
• Always check for cyclists or pedestrians when pulling onto a road or out of a driveway.
• Be alert, courteous, and predictable. 

For Bicycles 

Obey all traffic signals. Bicycles are considered vehicles and must obey all traffic laws with the following exceptions:

• Idaho law does not require a bicycle to come to a complete stop at a stop sign; rather to treat it as a yield sign. 
• At a stoplight, a bicycle may proceed against a red light after coming to a complete stop, checking for oncoming traffic, and yielding the right-of-way.
• Travel at a safe speed when using pedestrian trails. The speed limit is 15mph for the safety of all trail users. Use a street if you must travel faster.
• Cyclists should always "Stop and Look" at all intersections and railroad crossings. 
• Bicycles should always travel in the same direction as traffic.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Lock your bike when not in use.
• Ride in a single file and alert other users when overtaking them. Assume other bicyclists and motorists don’t see you. Be alert, courteous, and predictable.