Message for Bicyclists, Motorists: Respect Each Other and Pedestrians

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 11, 2013) ― With the start of fall semester, University of Kentucky Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) is urging bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists to use caution when interacting with each other. As part of these efforts, PTS is sharing safety tips with both cyclists and drivers alike.

Cyclists and motorists have the same rights, rules and responsibilities on most Kentucky roads. Below are some tips for safe and legal bicycling:

• Respect the Red: Obey traffic rules for safety and to gain respect from motorists. Never ride against traffic. It is illegal and unsafe.
• Be Safe, Be Seen: Use front and rear lights and wear bright clothing. Be predictable and make eye contact with motorists and use hand signals to indicate your intentions.
• Pass with Care: A minimum of three feet is recommended for passing vehicles.
• Wear a Helmet: Helmet use dramatically reduces the risks of brain injury and death for cyclists involved in accidents.

Riding on Sidewalks Safely

Some campus sidewalks have been designated as shared sidewalks and, under certain conditions, serve as important connections for cyclists. These shared sidewalks are wide, do not run parallel to vehicular traffic and connect important campus destinations. Even so, these walks were designed for pedestrian traffic and bicyclists should always yield.

If you choose to ride your bike on any campus sidewalk, please follow these basic rules:

• Go slow: Sidewalks are not designed for speeds faster than a slow jog.
• Always yield to pedestrians: Give audible warning or dismount to pass when sidewalks are crowded or narrow.
• Check every cross street and driveway: Vehicles often pull across the sidewalk before entering traffic or turn into driveways without scanning very far down the street.
• Only cross the street at crosswalks: Darting into the street mid-block is very dangerous.

For motorists, the list of driving tips below will help keep the road a safe way to travel:

• Every Lane is a Bike Lane: Cyclists have a right to the road. Be alert and patient. Expect cyclists on the road at any time, especially on signed bike routes. Do not use a bike lane as a turn lane.
• Pass with Care: Bicycles are considered vehicles and should be given the appropriate right of way. A minimum of three feet is recommended for passing cyclists. Stay behind cyclists when you are turning right. Don’t honk your horn when approaching cyclists. You can startle the cyclist and cause a crash.
• Be Alert: Check your mirrors. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, yielding to them at crosswalks and intersections; pay special attention while driving on or around campus. Scan for cyclists before turning across a bike lane, driveway or onto another road.
• Don’t Speed or Text: Follow posted speed limits and follow distracted driving laws; don’t text message while your vehicle is in motion.

For more information about cyclists, motorists and pedestrians sharing the road, visit www.moveitpeople.com/bike/safety. For a complete list of local bike ordinances, visit www.lexingtonky.gov/bikewalklex.

PTS, in conjunction with the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, Fayette County Public Schools, Lexington Police and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, wants to promote safety on our roads.