W.A.V.E
For Safety
Bethany Beach

PRACTICE W.A.V.E
W: Wait and watch
A: Assess the traffic patterns
V: Verify it’s safe to cross
E: engage and enter the crosswalk

DO’S AND DON’TS

• Be aware of surroundings and keep an eye out for turning, entering, and exiting traffic
• Only cross Coastal highway at the safe and appropriate times
• If driving, be alert for pedestrians and follow all posted speed limits
• Avoid walking in traffic lanes and bike paths. Use the sidewalks where applicable
• Don’t be distracted by electronic devices while crossing

TRAFFIC LAWS 101

• Make sure to be alert and put away all electronic devices
• Use crosswalks when crossing public roadways
• Adhere to all traffic control signals (crosswalk lights, traffic lights, bike path markings)
• Where a sidewalk is not available, any pedestrian walking along a road shall walk facing traffic and on the same side of the road as the oncoming traffic, while being as far as practicable from the edge of the road
• Yield to traffic when it is not possible to cross at an intersection
• Remember to keep your head on a swivel for turning, entering, and exiting traffic
• When possible, wear bright colored clothing to enhance your presence

DID YOU KNOW?

• Delaware has one of the highest per-capita pedestrian fatality rates in the nation
• Approximately 24% of all traffic fatalities involve pedestrians
• Pedestrians can decrease these fatalities by practicing better awareness and limiting distractions while crossing roadways

BICYCLE RIDERS…
KNOW THE LAW BEFORE YOU RIDE!

ENFORCING BIKE SAFETY LAWS:

Use hand signals

Right Way to Turn Left:
Ride on right, carefully move to the left of lane for left hand turn

Always Ride in the Same Direction as Traffic

Use Proper Safety Equipment

• Helmet (Required by law if under the age of 18, but recommended for all ages)
• Reflective Clothing
• Headlight and Reflectors on Your Bike

Obey All Traffic Signs and Signals
Red: Stop
Yellow: Clear the Intersection
Green: Go

Don’t Drink and Ride!
Drinking and driving laws are the same for cars and bikes

Headphones Must Not Cover Both Ears

OBEYING BICYCLE LAWS WILL KEEP YOU SAFE
Riding a bicycle is a great way to get exercise and see the beautiful sights of Bethany Beach! While on your bike, however, keep in mind that there are certain laws that every cyclist must follow. These laws ensure the safety of cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians.
Bicycle safety laws are strictly enforced in Bethany Beach, so be sure to study them carefully!