Avoiding Theft
Bicycle theft is extremely common near campus and in Berkeley in general. Secure your bicycle with a U-lock at all times – secure the front wheel and the frame whenever possible. If you have to lock your bike to a sign or a fencepost, check that it is securely attached to the ground. If your bicycle is really nice, consider buying a cheap one for everyday use. Register your bicycle with police to (slightly) increase your chances of recovery if it is stolen.

Avoiding Accidents
Berkeley is full of inattentive drivers, and the chaos of cars/bikes/pedestrians near campus is challenging even for skilled drivers. Bike carefully, and make eye contact with drivers whenever possible! City-designated bicycle boulevards (denoted by purple signs) generally have less automobile traffic than other streets. But even on bicycle boulevards, it is unwise to plow through intersections at full speed. Wear a helmet. On campus, be extra careful of pedestrians – many students wear headphones and walk with their heads down, completely oblivious to their surroundings.

Avoiding Tickets
UCPD is looking for opportunities to ticket you!! Last year I was fined $230 for riding in a dismount zone. Last week, I saw a cyclist get pulled over and ticketed for rolling through a stop sign near Memorial Glade. When riding on campus, obey the letter of the law. In particular, dismount and walk your bike through Sproul Plaza and the areas near Dwinelle and Wheeler halls.