With the California weather warming up Fountain Valley and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) are highlighting how bicycling is a great way to stay in shape, save money on gas, reduce pollution and when visiting recreational areas, a great way to see the sights. These benefits are nothing new to cyclists and community leaders. Many cities have created bike-friendly routes now complete with bike paths, special bicycle parking areas and special amenities. National Bike Safety Month in May is just one way we celebrate our love to ride.
However, motorists and bicyclists must take extra precautions when they travel together. Riders often share the road with vehicles, which creates a host of hazards, and injuries can happen even on a designated path. In 2016, California passed legislation requiring motorists to proceed past riders with at least a 3 foot of clearance.
According to National Safety Council Injury Facts 2017, 488,123 people were treated in emergency rooms in 2015 after being injured riding a bicycle. The only sport resulting in more injuries overall was basketball, at 493,011. Football was third, at 399,873.
The following safety tips can save lives:
Drivers:
- “Share the road” with bicyclists
- Be courteous; California law now mandates at least three feet of clearance when passing a bike riders
- Look for cyclists before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space
- Yield to cyclists at intersections and as directed by signs and signals
- Be especially watchful for riders when making turns, either left or right
- It is unlawful to drive in a bike lane except for 200 feet prior to make a right or left turn
Bicyclists:
Wear properly fitted bicycle helmets every time they ride. If under 18 years of age, it’s the law
- A helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury resulting from a bicycle crash
- Riders are considered vehicle operators; they are required to obey the same rules of the road as other vehicle operators, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
- When cycling in the street, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
- Bicyclists should increase their visibility to drivers by wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing during the day, and at dawn and dusk
- To be noticed when riding at night, the law requires a front light and a red reflector to the rear
For additional safety, use a flashing rear light, and use retro-reflective tape or markings on equipment or clothing.