How to Share the Road Around Cyclists
March 4th, 2020 by Fix Auto USA
Bicyclists and motorcyclists use the road in the same way as drivers. Thus, you need to share the road safely with cyclists — and vice versa — to limit the risk of accidents and collisions.
Do Cyclists Have the Same Rights As a Car?
Drivers and cyclists share the same rights on the road. If you are driving a car or riding a bicycle or motorcycle, you are responsible for obeying signs and signals. In addition, you must ride defensively and avoid distractions.
Let’s not forget about the rights of pedestrians, either. Regardless of whether you’re driving a car or riding a bicycle or motorcycle, you must keep an eye out for pedestrians. At the same time, pedestrians are responsible for walking on sidewalks and crossing streets in crosswalks whenever possible.
What Is the Ideal Driving Distance from Cyclists?
The laws surrounding the ideal driving distance from cyclists vary across the United States, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. In some states, drivers are required to change lanes when passing a cyclist. Meanwhile, other states require a minimum distance of 3- to 4-ft. for a driver who intends to pass a cyclist. Various states have no laws in place related to driving distance from cyclists.
Ultimately, it helps to learn your local laws to find out how driving distance from cyclists is regulated in your state. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and create as much distance between yourself and a cyclist to limit risk for both parties.
Tips to Safely Share the Road Around Cyclists
As a driver, you may be concerned about your ability to share the road around cyclists — and rightfully so. Thankfully, there are many things you can do to safely share the road with cyclists, such as:
1. Focus on the Task at Hand
A distracted driver is less likely than others to see cyclists around his or her vehicle. Therefore, you need to do everything possible to eliminate distractions while you drive — or risk an accident or collision with a cyclist.
Typically, it helps to put away your cell phone when you drive. If possible, give your phone to a passenger or put it in your glove compartment. In the event that you need to make a call or send a text message, pull over to the side of the road and park your car before doing so.
2. Stay Out of Bike Lanes
A bike lane is a dedicated space for cyclists and should be treated as such. Otherwise, if you block a bike lane, cyclists may veer into traditional driving lanes. And in these instances, you could create hazards for both cyclists and other drivers on the road.
Remember, bike lanes provide benefits to both drivers and cyclists, as they reduce the risk of accidents and collisions. Bike lanes can even create additional space for drivers and prevent drivers from having to swerve to get around cyclists.
3. Pass Safely
The temptation to avoid cyclists at all costs can sometimes be overwhelming for drivers, due in part to the fact that a cyclist frequently travels at a speed that is significantly lower than an average car’s. If you decide to pass a cyclist on the road, however, you need to proceed with caution.
When passing a cyclist, you should always do so on the left. You should also travel slowly around a cyclist and create enough space between the cyclist. That way, you can go around a cyclist without putting him or her at risk.
4. Use Signals
Your car’s directionals are exceedingly valuable, particularly when it comes to making a left or right turn around a cyclist. Oftentimes, a cyclist has no idea if you plan to make a left or right turn unless you signal. And if you plan to turn, activate your directional, and a cyclist can prepare accordingly.
As you plan for a turn, there may be instances in which a cyclist is headed in your direction, and you may be worried about a potential collision with him or her. In these scenarios, it is generally a good idea to play it safe. If you take a few seconds to wait for the cyclist to pass, you can complete your turn safely — and prevent a possible accident or collision.
5. Be Considerate
The rules of the road apply to drivers, motorcyclists, and bicyclists alike, and you should treat cyclists in the same way you expect to be treated. In doing so, you can help reduce risk for both drivers and cyclists.
To be a considerate driver, you should watch for cyclists in traffic and at intersections and any time you open your car’s doors. Furthermore, avoid honking the horn at a cyclist, as this could create a distraction for the cyclist and other drivers on the road.
Sharing the road with cyclists may seem challenging at times, but the tips above can help you and cyclists minimize potential risks. Follow these tips, and you and cyclists can simultaneously improve road safety.
This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Gladstone, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing the Gladstone area, including Clackamas, Milwaukie, Oregon City, and West Linn.
