Traffic Safety

Cyclists

Bicycles are considered vehicles and must follow the rules of the road.

Drivers can help keep San Marcos streets safe by following these rules:

Follow the speed limit.
Avoid distractions while driving.
Slow down in school zones.
Give space to people walking or biking.
Slow down at intersections.
Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or corners.
Be extra cautious in poor conditions such as darkness, fog, or rain.
Give bicyclists plenty of space when passing.
As of Jan. 1, 2023, California law requires drivers to change lanes, when possible, to safely pass cyclists.

Taking simple precautions can make every walk in San Marcos safer. Keep these tips in mind:

Make yourself visible by using lights at night, wearing bright or reflective clothing, sticking to well-lit areas when possible
Always follow traffic laws.
Use crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Stay on sidewalks when available.
If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.
Yield when needed.
Avoid distractions like looking at your phone.
Keep headphones low so you can hear what’s happening around you.