Key West is big in personality, but not so much in size, at just 4 miles long by 2 miles wide. Combine that with 2.5 million visitors a year, and you’re looking at an exciting atmosphere year-round. There’s so much to see and do, and so many ways to do it. It’s different here. You’ll notice a lot more people walking and biking. So whether you drive, bike or walk, we want everyone to get the most out of their time, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Below you will find safety tips for all modes of island travel.

Regardless of your mode of transport, whether it be car, bicycle or feet, everyone can be a PAL:

  • Predictable – Don’t make sudden or unexpected moves that could cause confusion
  • Alert – Always pay attention and be aware of your surroundings
  • Lawful – Know and obey the traffic laws at all times

Walkers

  • Stay on designated sidewalks and trails
  • On shared paths, stay to the right
  • Only cross at marked intersections and crosswalks
  • Look left, right and left again before crossing the street

Cyclists

  • It only takes 30 minutes to bike longways from one end of the island to the other!
  • Bikes are considered vehicles and must obey all traffic regulations
  • Never ride the wrong way down a one-way street
  • Always use a light at night (white in front, red in back)
  • Always ride on the right side of the street with the flow of traffic – never against traffic
  • Always lock your bike. Even for a few minutes. Own your bike? Register it with Key West Police
  • Do not block sidewalks when parking your bike
  • Don't lock bikes to fire hydrants, trees, or street signs
  • Bikes are allowed on sidewalks. Always yield to pedestrians. Go slow!
  • Wear a helmet (required if you are under 16 years of age)
  • If you wear headphones, only use one earbud and keep the volume low
  • Ride 3 feet from parked cars to avoid opening car doors

eBikers

Drivers

  • Texting while driving is illegal in the state of Florida
  • Driving? Set It and Forget It. We recommend you park your car as permanently as possible during your stay. There are many public and private parking lots in the downtown area which are easy to find using your phone's map app.
  • SLOW DOWN! Pay attention. There are lots of pedestrians and bikers out there
  • Put down the cell phone. Do not use it while driving
  • Vehicles must pass on the left and must always provide three (3) feet when passing a bike
  • Remember, bikes can use the full lane. If behind one, slow down and be patient
  • Be attentive at intersections and driveways and check all directions. Bikes and pedestrians can be coming from all directions on sidewalks, even when traffic is going one way
  • Do not overtake and pass other vehicles stopped for pedestrians
  • STOP when you see flashing lights at the mid-block crosswalks along N. Roosevelt Boulevard. Only proceed once pedestrians and cyclists have exited the crosswalk
  • After parking on the street use the "Dutch Reach" (use your right hand furthest from the door) and look for bicycles before opening the door

Car-Free Key West supports the implementation of the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Transportation Plan. This includes developing a connected, low-stress and safe network for people to travel by bike, walk or transit and ensuring walking and biking conditions are safe and comfortable on all streets, trails and at intersections.

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Safety