Dear Residents of Houston Heights,

We’re bringing to your attention critical updates on bicycle safety and legal changes that impact our community. In 2023, a concerning 42.1% of bike fatalities in the City of Houston occurred within City Council Districts C and D, areas that many of us call home. It’s noteworthy that there have been zero bike fatalities on roads equipped with protected bicycle infrastructure, highlighting the importance of such amenities for our safety.

In response to these safety challenges, there have been significant legal advancements with the enactment of the Lisa Torey Smith Act. This law marks a pivotal change from the previous requirement for drivers to ‘Yield’ to pedestrians in crosswalks. As of 2021, it is now a criminal offense not to stop for pedestrians, with the possibility of facing felony charges for severely injuring or killing a pedestrian under these circumstances.

Previous signs commonly seen at crosswalks                                        Since the Lisa Torey Smith Act, this is the suggested sign to place

These developments underscore the need to stay informed about the laws that protect us all. Together, we can make Houston Heights a safer place for cyclists and pedestrians alike.

Let’s stay vigilant, informed, and proactive in ensuring the safety of our community.

Sincerely,
Houston Heights Association