As we continue through the dog days of summer, there has been a noticed increase in the amount of bicycle traffic here in our community. Whether it be families or individuals enjoying a ride through our beautiful landscapes or community fundraisers involving significant number of participants, the increased presence of bicycles sharing the roadway brings both opportunity for pleasure as well as risks. With a great deal of summer and fall riding conditions yet to come this season, I felt a quick refresher may be in order.

First and foremost, I want to reiterate that bicycles are considered and recognized as legitimate modes of transportation on any public roadway, and thus should be treated much like any other vehicle, regardless of the number of wheels or the means by which it is powered.  Bicycles have the same rights and duties when operating as such.

The first basic rule is that bicycles travel the road in the same direction as other vehicular traffic. This is different from pedestrians which we always recommend walk or run against traffic. When operating with traffic, the bicycle should remain to the far right of the respective lane of travel. If traveling as a group, those on bicycles should maintain a single file, again along the far-right side of the respective lane of travel.

The second basic rule is that, just like any other “vehicle”, bicycles need to utilize directional signals when turning or stopping. We should have all been instructed on the appropriate hand signals as children, but if you are not sure, feel free to brush up on those before heading out. If you are a motor vehicle operator, and see a bicycle on a roadway, be extra vigilant for those hand signals, and don’t mistake them for someone waving at you to be friendly.

If as an operator of a motor vehicle, you find yourself traveling in the same direction as a bicycle, please give them the appropriate and safe distance as you maneuver past them. This may mean that you will have to remain behind them until oncoming traffic has cleared, allowing you to deviate far enough to the left for that safe distance to be created.

Just as in any silent sport, visibility is everything. Please make sure to utilize reflective markers or lights on your bicycle or person when operating on or adjacent to public roadways. Safe peddling to all!