September 14, 2009
The Blue Ridge Parkway is joining DRIVE SMART Virginia, Bike Walk Virginia, and the Virginia Highway Safety Office at DMV to promote Virginia Cycling and Pedestrian Awareness Week, September 13-20, 2009.
In 2008, ninety people died walking or cycling on our Virginia roadways. Additionally, 716 cyclists and 1,696 pedestrians were injured. Lack of knowledge and risky behavior often leads to crashes between roadway users. Taking time to learn the laws and safety tips can save a life.
“Many people don’t realize that a bicycle is considered a vehicle in Virginia and has the same duties and rights as motor vehicles on the road,” says Steve Stinnett, Chief Ranger for the Blue Ridge Parkway. This means bikes and cars have to obey all traffic signs, signals, lights and markings. A bicycle should always travel in the same direction as motor vehicle traffic. Knowledge of road rules is particularly important on the Parkway where bicycles are allowed only on the road and not on Parkway trails.
Motorists are required by law to approach and pass bicyclists at a reasonable speed and to allow at least two feet between their vehicle and the cyclist. Use of hand signals by cyclists and mechanical signals by motorists are required to notify other roadway users of intent. Bicycles must ride single file while on the Parkway, as on all other roads in Virginia. “Behaving in a predictable manner while driving, biking, or walking can reduce the risk of crashes,” adds Stinnett.
Whether riding in a car or on a bicycle, all safety precautions should be used, including a safety belt in a car and a helmet on a bicycle. Cyclists can also protect themselves by wearing bright clothing, using flashing lights during day and night, and by securing loose clothing.
Pedestrians can improve safety by wearing bright colors during the day and reflective material or blinking lights at night. Light colored clothing is slightly helpful in making you visible at night, but reflective tape or reflective fabric is much better.
Join the Blue Ridge Parkway in supporting this inaugural Virginia Cycling and Pedestrian Awareness Week from September 13-20, 2009. Remember – we are all on the road together. For more information, visit www.drivesmartva.org, or www.sharingtheroadinvirginia.org.
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