Should Bicyclists Have Equal Rights to the Road?

by Courtney Conley

May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and for good reason--as the weather starts to warm up, more and more people forgo motor vehicles and turn to bicycles for their travel needs. Riding a bike is a great way to help support a clean environment. It’s also a nice workout! Perhaps the most difficult thing about riding a bike is sharing the road with motor vehicle drivers, who sometimes believe they "own the road." That isn’t the case at all--in reality, all roadway users have equal rights and responsibilities on our roadways.

As we head into the warmer months, here are some ways you can do your part to keep bicyclists safe while you’re behind the wheel.

Bicyclist

Bicyclists are vulnerable roadway users.

Some roadway users are more vulnerable than others because they are not protected by a vehicle. This means that they’re much more likely to sustain serious injuries in the event of a collision. As a driver, it’s your responsibility to be careful around vulnerable roadway users and always drive in a way that prevents collisions--even if the vulnerable roadway user is doing something they shouldn’t, like weaving between cars or ignoring traffic lights.

Share the road.

Like we mentioned, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other roadway users. That means they have the right to ride in the middle of a lane if it’s too narrow to share with a car, and they must obey all traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs and red lights. As a driver, it’s important to respect bicyclists’ rights and do your part to keep them safe.

Give them extra space.

When passing a bicyclist, it’s important to give them plenty of space. The recommended safe passing distance is at least three feet in most cases, but try to give them as much space as you can safely. If you’re not sure you can safely pass a bicyclist, slow down and wait until it’s safe to do so. Do not speed up to get around a bicyclist faster--that will just put both of you in danger of a collision. It’s not worth the miniscule amount of time you’ll save.

Be patient.

Bicyclists are often slower than cars, especially on hills or when facing headwinds. It’s important to be patient and not try to pass them in unsafe conditions, such as on a curve or in heavy traffic. Wait until it’s safe to pass, and then give them plenty of space.

Use turn signals.

Using turn signals is important when driving around bicyclists, as it helps them anticipate your movements and avoid collisions. Always use your turn signals when turning or changing lanes, and give bicyclists plenty of warning when you’re about to turn.

Don’t honk, yell, or otherwise distract bicyclists.

Honking or yelling at bicyclists can startle them or cause them to lose control of their bike and should only be done when there is immediate danger. If you need to get their attention, try to make eye contact with them.

Adjust your driving to fit current weather conditions.

Weather conditions can have a big impact on bicyclists’ safety. Rain, wind, and snow can all make biking more challenging, so be extra cautious and patient when sharing the road with bicyclists in adverse weather.

Check your blind spots.

Bicyclists can sometimes be difficult to see, especially in a car’s blind spots. Be extra cautious when turning or changing lanes, and always check your blind spots before making a move.

Pay extra attention at night.

Many bicyclists ride at night, either for transportation or recreation. It’s important to be prepared for nighttime riding by using your headlights and taillights, as well as reflective clothing or accessories. If you’re driving at night, be extra cautious and watch for bicyclists who may be less visible.

Let’s all have a safe and enjoyable summer by doing our part to keep each other safe on the roads.

Are you interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and for good reason--as the weather starts to warm up, more and more people forgo motor vehicles and turn to bicycles for their travel needs. Riding a bike is a great way to help support a clean environment. It’s also a nice workout! Perhaps the most difficult thing about riding a bike is sharing the road with motor vehicle drivers, who sometimes believe they "own the road." That isn’t the case at all--in reality, all roadway users have equal rights and responsibilities on our roadways.

Categories: Driving Laws, Driving Safety