Door Zone
Sidewalks are designed primarily for pedestrians. While bicyclists are generally allowed to ride on sidewalks in Madison, there are areas where riding on the sidewalk is prohibited or discouraged for safety reasons.
Knowing when to ride in the street, use a bike path, or walk your bicycle helps keep everyone safe.
Watch Out for the Door Zone
Avoid riding on sidewalks where buildings open to the sidewalk.
In these areas, pedestrians may unexpectedly step out of doorways directly into your path. This creates a risk of collisions, especially when a bicyclist is traveling at a higher speed.
These sidewalks are also often busy with people entering and exiting businesses, stopping to look in windows, or walking in groups. Riding in these areas can create conflicts between bicyclists and pedestrians.
Areas Where Sidewalk Riding Should Be Avoided
Examples of areas with busy sidewalks and buildings close to the sidewalk include:
- State Street and the Capitol Square
- University Avenue
- Monroe Street
- Williamson Street
- Atwood Avenue
- East Johnson Street
- South Park Street
- Other neighborhood business districts with buildings directly along the sidewalk
When traveling through these areas, choose a safer alternative:
- Ride in the street where permitted and safe to do so.
- Use a nearby bike path or parallel street when one is available.
- Walk your bicycle if you need to use the sidewalk.
Choosing the right route helps prevent collisions and makes shared spaces more comfortable for everyone.
Pedestrians Always Have the Right-of-Way
Where sidewalk bicycling is permitted, bicyclists must yield to pedestrians. Remember that people walking may change direction, stop suddenly, or be unaware that a bicycle is approaching.
Follow these steps when approaching pedestrians from behind:
- Slow down. Reduce your speed well before reaching the pedestrian.
- Give a friendly warning. Gently ring your bell or say “Excuse me" to let the person know you are approaching.
- Wait for a response. Give the pedestrian time to hear you and react.
- Pass only when safe. Leave plenty of room and pass at a slow speed.
- Stop if necessary. If there is not enough space to pass safely, stop and wait or walk your bicycle.
Never assume a pedestrian has heard you or knows which direction you intend to travel.
Be Predictable and Courteous
A few simple habits make sidewalk sharing safer:
- Ride slowly, especially near doorways, intersections, driveways, and crowded areas.
- Stay alert and watch for people entering or leaving buildings.
- Keep a safe distance from pedestrians and give them plenty of space.
- Be prepared to stop at any time.
- Dismount and walk your bicycle when sidewalks are crowded or conditions make riding unsafe.
Make Safety Everyone's Priority
The safest choice is not always the fastest route. When sidewalks are crowded or buildings open directly onto the sidewalk, riding in the street, taking a nearby path, or walking your bicycle can help prevent injuries.
Slow down, yield to pedestrians, and choose a route that keeps everyone safe.
Note: Sidewalk bicycling rules can vary by location. Check current City of Madison ordinances and posted signs for applicable restrictions.