Sharing the road with pedestrians and bicyclists

As the temperatures rise across the area, so are the number of drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists on the road. To avoid an accident and ensure safe travels for yourself and others, make sure you are alert and obey the rules of the road no matter how you are traveling.

Motor vehicle drivers must be cautious when sharing the road with pedestrians and bicyclists. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, drivers must keep a four foot distance between their vehicle and a bicycle if they want to pass the bicycle.

When passing, motorists should do so with caution and at a reduced speed. If necessary, it is legal to cross the double yellow line when passing a bicycle; however, when doing so, you must still keep a four foot distance between your vehicle and the bicycle. To be able to follow this rule effectively, you must be an alert driver. Never text while driving, keep the radio to a minimum volume and eliminate any distractions that keep you from focusing on the road. You should also be aware of your surroundings while driving, observing where crosswalks, sidewalks and bike lanes are. Most importantly, drivers must always obey speed limits and yield to pedestrians.

Pedestrians and bicyclists can also do their part in helping promote safe travels on roadways this spring.

As a pedestrian it is important to obey the rules of the road.

•· Obey traffic signals and use crosswalks and sidewalks.

•· When crossing intersections, try and make eye contact with drivers to ensure they are paying attention.

•· Walk against the traffic so you are able to see vehicles traveling toward you and make adjustments if needed.

•· If you are traveling at night, wear light colored clothing or reflector tape to make yourself more visible to drivers.

To keep safe while bicycling, consider these few tips while traveling.

•· Signal other vehicles ahead of time with your arms to indicate a turn.

•· Use bike lanes whenever possible.

•· Be aware that vehicles have a lot of blind spots.

•· Although helmets are not required for bicyclists over the age of 12, adults should consider wearing protective helmets

•· Wear proper clothing and light colored attire to make yourself noticeable to drivers.

No matter how you plan on traveling this summer, we hope you do so with caution. If you or someone you know was injured in an accident, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Berger and Green today.

Source:

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Just Drive PA