May is National Bicycle Safety Month
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) recently issued a press release announcing that May is National Bicycle Safety Month. Every year, the agency uses the month of May to remind the public that motorists and bicycles share an obligation to keep the roads safe for the thousands of California residents who ride their bikes daily for leisure, exercise, or commuting purposes.
Another agency taking part in the campaign is the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). They are promoting the law that requires a motorist to keep three feet of space when passing a cyclist. The Director of OTS offers this tip to motorists: pretend that others with whom you share the roads are members of your family or your closest friends.
How Motorists Can Do Their Part
Vehicle drivers can do their part to keep bike riders safe by:
- Remaining aware that the roads are shared, and other types of commuters have just as much of a right to travel on them as those driving vehicles.
- Always look twice for cyclists or pedestrians before turning in either direction.
- Ensure that you and your passengers check for oncoming bikes before opening the car doors.
- Always maintain at least three feet of space when passing a bike. If that is not possible, do so at a reasonable speed to maintain the safety of the bicyclist.
- Remember that bicyclists are especially vulnerable to injury or death in the event of a crash due to their lack of protection.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Preliminary data from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System show that close to 800 bicyclists were killed, and upwards of 51,000 sustained injuries in traffic collisions in our state during the last five years. The research revealed that two primary causes of deadly bicycle accidents were:
- Cyclists riding on the wrong side of the road, in the opposite direction of traffic
- Improper turning violations
How Cyclists Can Do Their Part
Being on a bicycle does not make one immune to traffic laws. Cyclists are required to follow all traffic signals and signs. They should not operate a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and should eliminate distractions by not wearing headphones. Additionally, while riding a bicycle, one should remain aware of surroundings and the potential for a change in traffic conditions. Finally, keeping the bicycle in good repair and investing in safety equipment, starting with a good helmet, can help increase a cyclist’s chances of surviving a collision.
CHP-Sponsored Bicycle Safety Events
Throughout the rest of the month of May, officers with the CHP will be conducting educational presentations and other events to promote Bicycle Safety Month.
Watch the YouTube video. The news clip below discusses ways in which the CHP is using the month of May to promote bicycle safety.
Davis Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Hello, and thank you for reading. My name is Ed Smith, and I am a bicycle accident attorney in Davis, California. The skilled injury lawyers at my firm have significant experience in advocating on behalf of injured cyclists in Northern California. Getting an experienced lawyer to help you soon after such an accident can ensure that your rights are protected and that the value of your case is maximized. To receive our compassionate, free, and friendly legal advice, call us at (530) 392-9400. If you are calling from outside the local area code, please feel free to use our toll-free line: (800) 404-5400
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Photo: MMcB
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