Bike Smart
Signal your turns.
This will make everyone’s experience a little less stressful and will help to keep you safe.
Use a headlight and reflectors.
Connecticut law requires bicyclists to use a front headlight, a rear reflector or tail light and side reflectors after dark and during conditions of poor visibility.
BIKE RIDER GRAPHIC COURTESY OF YALE SMART STREETS.
Slow down or stop at railroad grade crossings.
In general, it is best to cross railroad crossings at as close to a perpendicular angle as possible. In conditions of very light traffic, this can be accomplished by starting on one side of the available roadway and cutting across the travel lane(s) to the other side of the available roadway, as illustrated in the diagram below.
In some situations, performing this maneuver may not be safe. In such situations, it is essential that you reduce your speed before crossing angled tracks. Even at low speeds, it is important that you turn your front wheel to orient it perpendicular to the tracks as you cross each rail.
Resources for safe bicycling in New Haven
