How to be a bicycle-friendly driver in a school zone

En Español

With the arrival of warmer spring weather, more students are choosing to bike to school. This is a great trend for health, environmental sustainability, and reducing traffic congestion. However, it also requires extra awareness from drivers to ensure the safety of young bicyclists. Here are some important reminders on how to be a bicycle-friendly driver in school zones.

Reduce Car Traffic Near Schools
One of the most effective ways to keep bicyclists safe is to limit the number of vehicles around the school. If you must drive, consider parking a few blocks away and walking the rest of the way. This not only reduces congestion but also gives students a chance to be active before starting their school day. The “Drive to Five” approach, parking a five-minute walk away, can be a great way to encourage self-reliance while enhancing safety for bicyclists.

Rules of the Road

• Recognize Bicycles as Legitimate Road Users
  Bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. As a driver, sharing the road with cyclists can make you a more attentive and skilled driver. Following the rules of the road as a bicyclist, can make you a better driver.
   
• Watch Your Speed
  Speeding in a school zone is not only against the law, but it greatly increases the severity of crashes. Slow down and take your time—rushing can have serious consequences for bicyclists and pedestrians.
   
• Minimize Distractions
  Stay off your phone (which is now the law in Colorado) and avoid eating while driving. Keeping your focus on the road helps you stay aware of bicyclists and pedestrians.
   
• Make Eye Contact with Bicyclists at Intersections
  Establishing eye contact with a cyclist ensures that both parties are aware of each other. This simple step can prevent miscommunication and potential accidents.

Bike Lane Best Practices

• Yield to Bicyclists in the Bike Lane
  Bicyclists always have the right of way in the bike lane. Additionally, always yield to cyclists and pedestrians in crosswalks and scan your surroundings for vulnerable road users.
   
• Avoid Parking, Idling or Stopping in Bike Lanes
  Stopping in a bike lane forces cyclists into traffic, creating a hazardous situation. Keep these lanes clear to ensure safe passage for bicyclists.
   
• Bicyclists May Leave the Bike Lane
  Bicyclists are not required to stay in the bike lane. They may need to exit the lane due to obstacles such as debris, snow, potholes, or to prepare for a turn. Be patient and give them space.
   
• Be Aware of the “Door Zone”
  Before opening your car door near a bike lane or street, check for approaching cyclists. Opening a door into a cyclist’s path can result in serious injury.

Navigating School Zones Safely

• Extra caution at intersections
  Intersections are high-risk areas for crashes. Always come to a full stop behind the stop bar and check carefully before proceeding. Rolling stops and quick right turns on red can endanger bicyclists and pedestrians. In school zones, consider avoiding right turns on red altogether.
   
• No U-turns in a school zone
  U-turns in a school zone can be extremely dangerous, as they are often unexpected and can put bicyclists and pedestrians at risk. A driver making a U-turn may not see a child crossing the street or a cyclist riding alongside traffic. To keep school zones safe, avoid making U-turns and instead continue forward. Plan your route to avoid making U-turns.
   
• Use turn signals and check mirrors
  Signaling your intentions helps bicyclists anticipate your movements. Before turning, check your mirrors and blind spots to ensure no cyclists are in your path. Look behind you for cyclists approaching in the bike lane.
   
• Safe Passing Practices: Allow three feet to pass
  Colorado law requires drivers to give bicyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing, including mirror width. You are permitted to cross a double yellow line to pass a bicyclist safely, provided there is no oncoming traffic.
   
• Obey School Bus Laws
  When a school bus has flashing lights and an extended stop sign, all traffic in both directions must stop. Passing a stopped school bus is illegal and puts children at serious risk.

By following these guidelines, you can help make school zones safer for everyone, especially young bicyclists. A little patience and awareness go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey to school for all road users.
Learn more on BVSD's Safe Routes to School webpage.