“Slow Down Carlsbad” yard signs, tip cards and window clings are available to pick up at all three library locations, City Hall and the Faraday administration center. 

Bike helmets

• Helmets are required for riders under 18. Make sure your helmet fits properly to provide the best protection.
• There should be about two finger widths between your eyebrows and the bottom of the helmet, about two finger widths between your chin and the helmet strap, and the strap should form a "Y" shape over your ear.

Video guide

Right turns

• One of the most common types of collisions between cars and bicycles is called the "right hook," which is when a car turning right collides with someone riding in the bike lane.
• If you're driving, first look for bikes, then move as far to the right as you can before turning. If you see dashes in a bike lane, that usually means it's a good place to move over to the right before turning. If there isn't enough space for you to safely pass a cyclist before moving to the right, slow down and wait behind the cyclist before you turn.
• If you're biking, slow down behind turning cars or, if space and traffic allows, pass turning cars on the left.

Video guide

Avoid distractions

We all know the dangers of distracted driving. If you’re having a hard time resisting the urge to check your phone when you’re driving, here are a few tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Before you get in the car, turn on your phone’s “Do not disturb” feature.
• If you’re riding with other people in the car, hand your phone to your passenger. They can reply to any time-sensitive texts for you.
• Put your phone in the backseat or even your trunk before you get behind the wheel. Out of sight, out of mind.

Remember, drivers under the age of 18 may not use any mobile communications device at all, whether hands-free or hand-held. 

Test your knowledge with a distracted driving quiz from the California Office of Traffic Safety.

More resources

• Teaching kids to stay safe on the road
• Carlsbad e-bike rules of the road
• Why speed matters
• California's hands-free cell phone law

The city has a growing library of traffic safety videos that highlight how we can all look out for one another and be the best versions of ourselves on the road.

Making Sure Your Bike Helmet Fits

Got a New E-bike? Check This Out

Right Turns

Sharing the Road

5 Ways You Could Be Breaking the Law on Your E-bike

What Happens if You Break the Rules on Your E-bike

E-bikes and the Law

Know Your E-bike Type

Catching Up on Bike and E-bike Safety

Prepping for a Night Bike Ride

Ask the City: Speed Limits

The "Dutch Reach" 101