Duck is a “Pedestrian First” Community
Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk, shopping or dining in the village, or enjoying an event at the Town Park, the Town of Duck offers wonderful opportunities for pedestrians. No other mode of travel offers such a convenient and stress free way to experience the activity of Duck Village, connect with local neighborhoods, and enjoy the natural beauty of the town’s beach, sound, and coastal landscapes.
The Town of Duck has a long history of pedestrian travel, focused around its compact village center. When the shared use path was built to the north and south of Duck Village, it became obvious there was a pent-up demand for pedestrian facilities. Through the years, the use of this path by bicyclists and pedestrians has continued to increase and the Town is facing challenges to keep up with the demand.
General Safety Tips
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you are walking, running, cycling, or scooting through the Town of Duck we want to share some tips to help keep you safe.
- Keep an ear out. Headphones and earbuds can be dangerous. They inhibit your ability to hear sirens or other approaching vehicles and bikes.
- State law requires the use of marked crosswalks when provided.
- Always walk on the sidewalk or Duck Trail. Try to avoid walking on NC12. If no sidewalk or walkway is available, walk on the left side facing traffic.
- Take a second look. Look in all directions before crossing an intersection or road.
- Make eye contact with stopped cars before crossing. Never assume a driver sees you.
- Be Bright at Night. Wear bright clothing and carry a flashlight with you when walking at night. Have a light on the front and back of your bike.
- Stay off devices while walking. Pay attention to your surroundings.
Showing Intent at a Crosswalk
- Place foot on the white line
- Raise your hand to alert motorists
- Cross the street once the motorist has stopped
Always make eye contact to ensure that it is safe to cross. Never assume that a driver sees you.
If possible, wait for a large group to cross the street. This will lessen the number of times that traffic is stopped and, in turn, help with vehicle traffic flow.
Bicycle Safety
Children under the age of 16 are required by law to wear a helmet when riding a bike.
In North Carolina, bicycles are considered vehicles and, therefore, must obey the same traffic laws as other drivers; including stop signs and traffic signals. When riding through town, be conscious of pedestrians preparing to cross the road.
Be a courteous cyclist. While you are entitled to use the full lane, riding on the right side will help with traffic flow. If riding on the Duck Trail, you should always pass on the left and alert those people being passed.
Be a “Roll Model”
Fitting your bike helmet
Using the Duck Trail and Sidewalks
Using the Duck Trail and Sidewalks
The Duck Trail is a six-mile long, multi-use path primarily located on the east (ocean) side of Duck Road. In 2018, the Town of Duck completed the installation of sidewalks and designated bike lanes on both the east and west sides of Duck Road through the village commercial area—specifically between Urban Cottage (1168 Duck Rd) and Barrier Island Station.
Sidewalks are for pedestrian traffic only.
Bicycles and non-motorized vehicles may use the Duck Trail.
E-bikes are permitted on the Duck Trail, with one exception:
In the Village area between the crosswalk at Aqua Restaurant and the crosswalk at Sunset Grill, e-bikes (and all bicycles) must use the designated bike lane attached to Duck Road. Bikes are not permitted on the concrete sidewalk in this section.
Prohibited on sidewalks and the Duck Trail:
- E-scooters
- Golf carts
- Low speed vehicles
- Mopeds
- Segways
- Any other vehicle with a motor (except e-bikes as noted above)
Pedestrians, bicyclists, and in-line skaters share the Duck Trail. Please use caution and share the path respectfully.
Electric- Assisted Bicycles
What is a LEGAL Electric-Assisted Bicycle (E-Bike)?
Legal E-Bikes meet ALL of these conditions:
- A bicycle with two or three wheels that is equipped with a seat or saddle for use by the rider
- Fully operable pedals for human propulsion
- Electric motor of no more than 750 watts
- Maximum speed on a level surface when powered solely by such a motor is not greater than 20 miles per hour
Always Remember:
- Have the same rules and laws as regular bicycles.
- Can ride where bicycles can go.
- Operator under the age of 16 requires a helmet.
Illegal Electric-Assisted Bicycle
If ANY of the aforementioned rules are not met, your bike is not a Legal E-Bike in the State of North Carolina. It would then be classified as one of the following:
- Motorcycle – Vehicles having a saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, including autocycles, motor scooters, and motor-driven bicycles, but excluding electric assisted bicycles and mopeds. (Driver’s license and Motorcycle endorsement required).
- Moped – A vehicle, other than a motor-driven bicycle or electric assisted bicycle, that has two or three wheels, no external shifting device, a motor that does not exceed 50cc piston displacement and cannot propel the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on a level surface. (Operator must be 16 years or older).
- Motor Vehicle – Every vehicle which is self-propelled and every vehicle designed to run upon highways which is pulled by a self-propelled vehicle.
It would then require:
- Registration, Insurance, & Inspection.
- Can only be operated on the street.
- Must have a Driver’s License (excludes mopeds).
Why this matters:
- Many popular electric powered bikes go 21+ miles per hour (not a legal E-Bike).
- Riding without proper licensing, and helmet (under the age of 16) is illegal and unsafe.
Where can E-Bikes be used?
- E-bikes are prohibited on Central Village Commercial Area pedestrian sidewalks (Aqua to Sunset Grill)
- All motorized vehicles, including electric scooters, skateboards, and one-wheel devices, are prohibited on multi-use pedestrian paths and Central Village Commercial Area sidewalks, regardless of the operator’s age
- Bicycles and e-bikes are encouraged to use designated bicycle lanes along Duck Road in the Central Village Commercial Area
Practical tips:
- No pedals = not a legal e-bike
- Check motor wattage and top speed before you purchase an E-Bike
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet. Those 16 years of age or younger are required by law to wear a helmet.
- Obey all traffic laws and posted signage
- Be mindful of pedestrians and yield when appropriate
- Use lights and reflective gear when riding in low-light conditions