How to navigate streets safely using the bike box

Published on April 05, 2023

A bike box is a designated area at the head of a traffic lane at an intersection that provides bicyclists with a safe and visible way to get ahead of queuing traffic. They can be helpful to get in position to make a left turn or traveling straight.

Bike boxes allow bicyclists to safely and clearly position themselves in front of motor vehicles while waiting for a green light. When riding where there is a bike box be sure to be in front of the car to increase your visibility.

Bike boxes also:

• Reduce “right-hook” collisions between bicyclists and right-turning cars
• Eliminate bicyclists’ need to merge into traffic to reach the turn lane
• Allow bicyclists to get ahead of traffic and away from exhaust fumes
• Reduce impediments to traffic flow by grouping bicyclists together
• Provide an extra buffer from cars for pedestrians using the crosswalk

How do bicyclists use bike boxes? Simply proceed into the bike box, stop, and wait for your green light. If the bike box is full, wait in the adjacent bike lane.

How do drivers use bike boxes? They don’t! If you are in a car, stop behind the white stop line. Never stop in the bike box, even if there are no bicyclists present.

Menlo Park is planning to install more bike boxes in the future! Questions, contact the Safe Routes to School Coordinator.