Full Notification

Newark, California – The Newark Police Department is encouraging everyone to be alert to keep bicyclists safe as we proudly join communities across the Bay Area in celebrating Bike Month, highlighted by Bike to School Day on May 14, 2026. 
 
This event is an excellent opportunity for everyone to support our youth and promote bicycle safety. 
 
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,105 people killed while riding a bike in 2022, and an estimated 46,195 bicyclists were injured. “Bicycling is a great means of transportation and recreation, and everyone deserves to ride to their destination safely,” Sergeant Karl Fredstrom said. “Whether you are behind the wheel or on two wheels, we all share the responsibility to move safely on our roads.”
 
The Newark Police Department suggests the following safety tips for bicyclists and drivers: 
 
Drivers:

• Slow down and follow the speed limit. Be careful traveling through intersections.

• Look carefully for bicyclists and pedestrians before making a turn or opening a car door near streets or bike paths.

• Be patient when traveling behind a bicyclist and give them space when passing. California law requires drivers to change a lane, when possible, to pass bicyclists and always pass with at least 3 feet of space. 

• Never drive distracted or impaired.
 
Bike Riders: 

• Use lights at night.

• Although not required for riders 18 and older, always wear a properly secured helmet. Helmets significantly reduce the chance of a head injury in the event of a crash.

• Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

• Yield to pedestrians, just as a driver would. Pedestrians have the right-of-way within marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections.