Charlotte, North Carolina, experiences dozens of traffic accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists each year. In recent years, the number of these accidents has slowly but steadily increased. In a recent year, for example, there were 40 pedestrian accidents and one bicycle crash. One year later, this increased to 47 pedestrian accidents and four bicycle crashes.

Last year, 49 pedestrian accidents were reported, along with seven bicycle crashes. As of May 2025, there have already been six accidents involving pedestrians and five more involving bicyclists.

These numbers present several safety and strategic problems to the city. If left unaddressed, individuals might not feel safe traveling by foot or bike. This can lead to increased traffic congestion on the city’s roads and elevate the chance of car accidents. Therefore, to combat the issue of bicyclist and pedestrian safety, Charlotte has undertaken several programs.

Key Non-Motorist Initiatives and Infrastructure in Charlotte

The city of Charlotte has announced and implemented several projects designed to increase bicyclist and pedestrian safety. A second objective of many of these projects is to promote and encourage individuals to use bicycles or walk to their destinations and thereby ease traffic congestion. Charlotte has or is undertaking several major projects.

In-Road Bicycle Infrastructure

This includes creating bike lanes and other physical modifications to roads to enhance bicyclist safety. Other similar projects include trails and pedestrian tunnels, and bridges that allow non-motorized traffic to safely cross over roadways. Finally, city leaders are looking to redesign several intersections to enhance visibility and safety.

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The advisory committee serves to make further recommendations to the city council about additional improvements and initiatives that can be made. Although the members of the committee are appointed, their meetings are open to anyone who wants to watch the proceedings or address the committee about an issue.

Best Practices for Bicyclists and Pedestrians

Those who travel by foot or by bike cannot prevent all collisions. Car and truck drivers must exercise care when operating their vehicles, especially in areas where pedestrians and bicyclists are likely to be present. Nonetheless, as a pedestrian or cyclist, you can protect your safety in several ways.

Always Wear a Helmet

There is no mandatory helmet law in North Carolina for bike riders over 16. However, wearing an approved and properly fitted bike helmet when riding can reduce the likelihood of a traumatic brain injury or head trauma in a crash. 

Cross the Street at Crosswalks and Intersections

Whenever possible, wait until you reach a marked crosswalk or intersection before crossing from one side of the street to the other. Intersections and crosswalks offer the greatest visibility for drivers, so they are more likely to see you at these locations.

While Bicycling, Use Bike Lanes When Available

Bicyclists are not required to use designated bike lanes. However, using them can decrease the likelihood of an accidental collision. Bike lanes are designed to create physical space between you and cars and trucks and to increase visibility.

Follow the Law, Especially Right-of-Way Rules

Just because you are not driving does not mean the state’s traffic laws do not apply to you. You must still follow local and state laws when riding your bike or traveling on foot. This means familiarizing yourself with the laws that govern the movement of traffic and who has the right of way on the road.

Improving Non-Motorist Safety in Charlotte

Charlotte’s investments in bicyclist and pedestrian safety and calls for all road users to prioritize safety can help make the city an even more welcoming place for bicyclists and motorists. Utilizing existing infrastructure, making use of safety equipment like helmets, and obeying existing traffic laws are also ways non-motorists can further protect themselves from harm.