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Editor's note: This is the first in a three-part series about getting along on Utah roads. Next week, we'll focus on how to behave around cyclists when you're driving a car.SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker has declared 2013 the year of the bike, and he doesn't seem to be alone in his thinking.
A couple months after Salt Lake City's bike share program began, New York City started its own version. Chicago and San Francisco will launch their own programs later this summer.
With an increase in cyclists, though, comes an increase in potential cyclist-involved accidents. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians have to work together to keep the roads safe. As a cyclist, here's how you can do your part:
Learn the laws
Your bicycle is considered a vehicle, meaning you have both the same rights and the same responsibilities as drivers do. That means you have to obey traffic signals, signs and all other traffic-control devices.
For a complete list of state laws, click here.
Keep your own safety in mind
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- Always wear a helmet
- Wear bright clothing
- Make eye contact with motorists when making a turn
- Don't wear headphones or talk on your cellphone
- Be respectful of drivers and pedestrians, even when they don't respect you.
Remember the basics
- Ride with the traffic flow and as far right as conditions safely allow.
- Occupy turn lanes when available.
- Obey all traffic signals including stop signs and lights.
- Have at least one hand in control of your bicycle at all times.
- Use bike lanes whenever possible.
- Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians
Use appropriate signals
Using signals for turns and lane changes helps drivers and pedestrians know to give cyclists space.
For left turns or lane changes, extend your left arm straight out to the side. For right turns or lane changes, either extend your left arm to the side, bent upward at the elbow, or extend your right arm straight out to the side. To signal a stop or decrease in speed, extend your left arm to the side, angled downward with your palm facing behind you.
Be predictable
Maintain a steady line of travel. Don't swerve in and out of lanes, between the bike lane and other lanes or between the sidewalk and the street. Try to stay three feet from parked cars.
Unless you are in a designated bike lane, do not pass cars on the right to get to the stop line, unless you are in a designated bike lane. Even if you are in a bike lane, be mindful of cars going through the bike lane to turn right.
Use through lanes only when traveling straight. Use dedicated turn lanes only when turning. It is legal (and safe) to use the center of a lane if you can keep pace with traffic and cars cannot pass you.
Additional resources
- Utah Department of Transportation Bicycle Commuter Guide
- Road Respect: Cars + Bikes
- Salt Lake City bike paths map
Did we miss anything? Let us know on the comment boards.
