Watch for Me

The Watch for Me safety campaign aims to reduce pedestrian and bicycle injuries and deaths through a comprehensive, targeted approach of public education, community engagement, and high-visibility law enforcement. Winston-Salem's campaign is part of the statewide "Watch for Me NC" program to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety.

This page has information for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians to help keep everyone safe and avoid traffic citations!

Watch For Me NC Applicable Laws

  1. Driver Laws
  2. Pedestrian Laws
  3. Bicyclist Laws
  1. Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians at marked crossings and unmarked crosswalks at intersections except where there is a traffic or pedestrian signal. (N.C. General Statute 20-155)
  2. Drivers must stop for pedestrians and bicyclists at stop signs and flashing red lights and must yield for pedestrians at flashing yellow lights. (N.C. General Statute 20-158)
  3. Drivers making right or left turns must allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross first, unless pedestrians are prohibited from crossing. (N.C. General Statute 20-173) Pedestrians or bicyclists on sidewalks have the right of way, so drivers must let them pass before turning into or out of driveways and parking lots. (N.C. General Statute 20-173)
  4. State law prohibits drivers from passing vehicles stopped for pedestrians in crosswalks. (N.C. General Statute 20-173(b)
  5. It is incumbent upon drivers to make sure the road is clear of pedestrians before pulling forward or backing up. (N.C. General Statute 20-154)

About Watch for Me NC

Watch for Me NC began in 2012 with a pilot program involving four communities. Since then, more than 50 communities have participated. Up to 10 communities are selected to participate each year. More information about the program is available at WatchForMeNC.org.