Give Bicyclists Three Feet of Space!
via SHA's newsletter
Give Bicyclists Three Feet of Space!
Sharing the road with bicyclists safely
 Beautiful Maryland autumn weather and roadways beckon bicyclists to the road. SHA and partners are urging motorists to share the road and be on the lookout for cyclists. On roads where shoulders end, SHA is installing newly approved signs that picture a bicycle with the words: "May Use Full Lane." The purpose of these signs is to notify drivers that cyclists may be moving into the travel lane. Locations are being inventoried and finalized, and sign installation has begun in some locations in Montgomery and Prince George's counties. Bicycles are considered vehicles, and deserve the same respect as traditional motorized vehicles on the road. When coming up on a cyclist, a driver should slow and carefully pass a cyclist when it is safe to do so, giving at least three feet of space. Likewise, bicyclists are subject to the same vehicle laws as drivers and should adhere to signs and traffic lights and signal their intentions to drivers when braking or turning. Bicycle safety is a two-way street, and cyclists are reminded to follow the rules of the road, to stay visible and wear a helmet. |