Police: 5 Woodward Dream Cruise Dos and Don'ts

A high percentage of the estimated 1.5 million people that wiil attend the 2013 Woodward Dream Cruise will follow the rules, predicts Royal Oak Police Chief Corrigan O'Donohue. But just in case, here's a refresher course on the dos and don'ts for the world’s largest one-day automotive event.

1. Do remember it's an alcohol free event

If O'Donohue could drive home one message to anybody who's attending the Woodward Dream Cruise, it is to keep in mind it is a family event and it's alcohol free.

"First and foremost, we have zero-tolerance for alcohol at this event," the chief warned. 

2. Don't drive recklessly

"We also have zero tolerance for any kind of reckless driving," O'Donohue said. That includes spinning tires or revving engines.

Officers will be looking for cruisers who are driving recklessly on Woodward Avenue, which is a misdemeanor violation that could receive a fine up to $500. 

3. Don't sit or stand in the median
You can bring lawn chairs and sit along the curb, but don’t block the sidewalks, and please don’t sit or stand in the median. 

The median is used as a emergency lane, O'Donohue said.

"We also prohibit people from being in the median because we believe it's too distracting for drivers if they are surrounded by people on all sides," he said.

4. Do follow traffic laws, even if you are on a bike

A few mishaps with bikes have occurred over the years, according to O'Donohue.

"Legally you can ride a bike on Woodward during the Dream Cruise, but I wouldn't recommend it," O'Donohue said. "If you do, all traffic laws apply."

That means you can't weave between cars because it might be quicker or ignore traffic signals.

You can ride your bike on the sidewalk, but you have to be courteous to pedestrians, he said.

"It's best just to walk your bike around."

5. Don't use the neighborhoods as a parking lot

Cruisegoers may legally park on neighborhood streets but cannot block driveways or sidewalks. And cars can't be left overnight.

"Residents need to be able to get in and out," O'Donohue said. "It gets very congested."