NMDOT Supports National Bicycle Safety Month

By NMDOT

New Mexico- May is “National Bicycle Safety Month.” It’s not only for those who bike to work or school, who pedal to stay fit, have fun or benefit the environment, it’s also for motorists. The New Mexico Department of Transportation and the Traffic Safety Division, would like to remind motorists and bicyclists to use the road safely and courteously.  Both must take extra precautions when traveling together.  It’s the perfect opportunity to educate children and adults about how bicycle safety and enjoyment go hand-in-hand.

 

Special Events:

National Bike to School Day-May 8^th

National Bike to Work Week-May13-17^th

National Bike to Work Day-May 17^th

 

Safety Reminders for Bicyclists:

• Always wear a helmet.
• Ride in the same direction as flowing traffic.
• Obey all stop signs and traffic lights.
• Ride as far to the right as possible.
• Signal your intent to change lanes or make a turn.
• Be visible if you ride at night.  Use a flashing orange or red light and wear reflective and light colored clothing.
• Be aware of parked cars; especially watch for open doors.
• Yield to traffic before entering the street from a sidewalk.

 

 

 

Safety Reminders for Drivers:

• Look carefully for bicyclists before turning right or left, merging into bicycle lanes and opening doors next to moving traffic.
• Don’t make sudden right turns after passing a bicyclist on your right.  Slow down and merge behind the bicyclist before turning.
• Some bicyclists, especially children, could behave unexpectedly.  Stay watchful for sudden movements and lane changes.
• Provide a safe travel distance away from people biking.
• Stay alert, avoid distractions.
• Treat the bicyclist as a legal, slow-moving vehicle, such as a backhoe.