Sidewalk Safety- Creating a Culture of Care
Sidewalks are highly important public spaces in our communities. They connect neighbors, provide access to our schools, shops and parks, and offer a safer place to walk, roll, and get where we want to go. With a rising population and increasing modes of mobility, sidewalks have become busier than ever. We now see bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, e-scooters, mobility devices, and strollers alike all trying to share sidewalk space. How can we all stay safe? Learning a few basic sidewalk safety rules and suggested behaviors can help everyone feel more comfortable — especially those on foot.
1. Pedestrians Come First
When you’re walking on the sidewalk in Cupertino you have priority. Everyone else — cyclists, bikes, scooters, etc. - must treat pedestrians (those walking) as the primary users. This means they should yield to you and your pace and treat you kindly and considerately.
2. Bikes Should use the Bike Lane
Wherever possible, bike riders should ride in the bike lane. Cupertino’s city code does specify that children under the age of 13 (and an accompanying adult) may ride on the sidewalk. In that case, the bike rider, regardless of age, must always yield to all pedestrians and ride slowly.
Push-scooters must also yield to pedestrians.
E-bikes must follow the same laws and rules of the road as traditional bicycles.
3. No E-Scooters on the Sidewalk!
Under California Vehicle Code (which Cupertino enforces), E-scooters may not be ridden on sidewalks except when crossing into or out of adjacent property (e.g., to get on/off the sidewalk to reach a driveway).
Riders must use bike lanes when available - and if there’s no bike lane, e-scooters must use the street where safe. If the street is not safe, we recommend walking your scooter on the sidewalk and becoming a pedestrian
A valid driver’s license or permit is required to operate an e-scooter
4. Sidewalk Etiquette for All Users:
- Keep to the right as much as possible
- Keep pets on short leashes
- Go slow if it’s crowded (get off and walk your bike or scooter)
- Greet people and say “Hello” as you pass them
- Make eye contact with drivers entering or exiting driveways
5. General Sidewalk Safety Tips:
- Be visible! Wearing bright colored clothing, vests, and lights can help keep you safer
- Walk, bike, roll in the right direction (the direction of traffic)
- Cross streets at marked crosswalks when possible
- Pay extra attention at driveways and crossings
- Wear headphones in one ear only so you can hear traffic
- Be predictable — it keeps interactions safer for all
- Be kind and respectful to other road users. We are a community!
By respecting sidewalk priority and sidewalk safety laws we create a safer, more pleasant experience for walkers, bikers, and micromobility riders alike. Whether you’re walking your dog, scootering to school, or biking to work, understanding these safety behaviors helps reduce conflicts, supports a more connected community, and creates a culture of courtesy and care.
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