PRESS RELEASE
AAA Encourages Motorists to Share the Road with Bicyclists
America's largest motor club promotes careful commuting whether your ride has two wheels or four
WASHINGTON, May 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- May is National Bike
Month and with a growing number of bicyclists on roadways, AAA
encourages all motorists to respectfully share the road with cyclists.
Most Americans continue to ride bikes for recreation, but many people
use their bikes as a means to commute to work, improve their physical
health and to reduce their overall carbon footprint. In recognition of
National Bike Month, AAA reminds both motorists and cyclists to be
vigilant about sharing the road, and to exercise caution year round.
"It's important for roadway users to remember that cyclists are
granted the same rights and are expected to obey the same laws as
motorists," says Jake Nelson, director, AAA Traffic Safety Policy and
Research. "AAA appreciates the continued efforts of stakeholders and
transportation officials towards making roads safer for motorists and
cyclists alike."
As May's warmer weather lures more cyclists onto roadways, AAA urges
motorists to exercise exceptional caution when approaching bicyclists
with whom they share the road, and offers the following tips:
-- Allow three feet of passing space between your car and the cyclist.
Tailgating or honking can startle or fluster a bicyclist, causing them
to swerve further into the driving lane.
-- Be patient. Remember, cyclists are moving under their own power and
can't be expected to go the same speed as cars.
-- Pay special attention to blind spots. Due to their size and the
location of bike lanes, bikes can often get lost in a car's blind
spot, so double check before changing lanes, making right-hand turns
or before opening your car door on the traffic side when parked.
-- Be attentive on side streets and neighborhoods. Children are
especially at risk in residential areas. Follow the speed limit, avoid
driver distraction and always be aware of your surroundings. It is
particularly important to be cautious when backing out of a driveway
and onto the street.
-- Use good common sense. For example, in inclement weather, give
cyclists extra room.
As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization,
AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance,
financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902,
the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate
for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited
on the Internet at AAA.com.
AAA news releases, high-resolution images, broadcast-quality video,
fact sheets and podcasts are available on the AAA NewsRoom at
AAA.com/news.
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Source: AAA
CONTACT: Christine Johnson of AAA, +1-202-942-2069,
CMJohnson@national.aaa.com
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