A mid-block crossing is a crossing located in the middle of a block rather than at an intersection. These crossings differ from standard pedestrian crossings at corners because they do not include push buttons or pedestrian signal lights.
Mid-block crossings are simple in design and safe when used properly. Below, we’ll walk through the key do’s and don’ts for both trail users and drivers to help ensure everyone can cross safely and confidently.
When approaching a mid-block crossing, trail users will ALWAYS have a stop sign and should come to a complete stop. Many of these crossing (but not all) will have flashing lights that are triggered by a sensor on the trail as you approach the crossing. Trail users will have a flashing red light, and cars will have flashing yellow lights. Many also have signage on the trail that state “cross traffic does not stop”. You may only cross when the roadway is clear.
Drivers should NOT stop to allow trail users to cross at these locations, though we do occasionally see this happen. We refer to these stops as an “illegal courtesy”. If a driver stops, kindly wave them on. If they persist, remain calm and courteous.
To clearly show you are not crossing, consider dismounting your bike, standing a few feet back from the crossing, checking your phone, or otherwise ignoring the driver. Never cross in front of a vehicle or assume it is safe just because a driver waves you through. While one driver may be yielding, you cannot predict what traffic in the opposite direction or behind that vehicle may do.
During busy times, it may take several minutes to cross safely, and that’s okay. Take the opportunity for a quick break, a sip of water, a stretch, or to check those text messages you’ve been ignoring. You’ll be safely back on your journey before you know it.
When approaching a mid-block crossing as a driver, caution is always important, but you should NOT stop for trail users unless they are already in the crossing. This includes situations such as exiting a nearby neighborhood or driveway that may be within several hundred feet of a crossing.
Most mid-block crossings are marked with bright yellow trail crossing signs, and some include yellow flashing lights. These lights are activated automatically by trail sensors and indicate that trail users are approaching the crossing. When the lights are flashing, extra caution and reduced speeds are appropriate, but drivers should not stop.
Stopping at a mid-block crossing signals to trail users that it is safe to cross, even though the stopping driver cannot predict what other vehicles, especially those approaching from the opposite direction or from behind will do. We refer to these stops as an “illegal courtesy.” While it may feel polite or safer in the moment, stopping in this situation actually increases the risk of a crash and should be avoided.
