Cyclists have to follow the rules of the road, too
Cycling enthusiasts want people to know that cycling is a safe and enjoyable form of transportation, especially here in Milledgeville. So as long as cyclists share the road and ride predictably, cycling can be the way to go.
A bike is defined as a vehicle according to the Georgia bicycle laws, and as the operator, the cyclist must obey all of the traffic rules that apply to other vehicles. Driving with the flow of traffic, using turn signals, turning on lights after dark, and stopping for stop signs and stop lights are basic laws that motorists must adhere to. Cyclists must abide by the same laws, though no driver’s license is required and riders can receive a ticket for a violation.
“We all take it for granted when we drive a car that the other cars will stop for a stop sign or signal when turning,” Adam Heagy, manager of Oconee Outfitters, said. “That’s why there are laws for cyclists. It causes predictability.”
For safe riding, cyclists should stay to the right of the road unless turning left or avoiding hazards. They also must use hand signals to indicate turns and stops, and should always ride with the flow of traffic, as well as remember that sidewalks are for pedestrians.
“A lot of people don’t realize that the sidewalks are supposed to be for pedestrians, and the streets are supposed to be for bikes,” Suzy Deacon, a senior history major, said. “I was walking back to my residence hall one night and this guy tears by me on his bike and I had no indication he was coming.”
Riding in the road does not have to be dangerous. One plea by cyclists is for drivers to “Share the street – leave three feet.”
In Georgia’s last General Assembly session, cycling proponents lobbied for a 3-foot passing law. The law, already in effect in 15 states, requires motorists to leave a safe distance of three feet between a vehicle and a cyclist when passing.
“Share the road,” said GCSU Public Safety Sgt. Nick Reonas. “I know it can be frustrating to automobiles because they can go faster, but be patient. Bikers have the same right to be on the road.”
The Bicycling Club of Milledgeville teaches cyclists how to safely share the road. They meet at Oconee Outfitters at 5:30 p.m. on the last Wednesday of every month for a ride called Bikes Are Traffic Too, Ya’ll. BATTY rides are a way to demonstrate how a cyclist should ride in a responsible manner. All cyclists are invited to ride with the group free of charge.
“In Milledgeville, there are a lot of people walking, a lot of people driving and a lot of people riding their bikes,” Reonas said. “You have to be aware of what’s around, and use common sense. It’s a common sense thing, more or less, on both ends. There needs to be a mutual understanding between cars and bikes.”
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Sep 25 2009. Filed under News.
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