Drive Smart Virginia Sharing the Road 101

OUR WORLD IS CHANGING Are becoming more popular means of travel So is the way we get places. We still like to drive, however; Running Bicycling Walking

Why should we share the road? In 2010, 88 people died while walking or cycling on Virginia’s roadways. 621 cyclists & 1585 pedestrians were injured.

1. Slow down, leave at least 3 feet for passing. 2. Remember, rear view mirrors & trailers can get in the way of other travelers. 3. The smallest bump can be deadly for those on foot or on a bike. 4. Minimize distractions. 5. Don’t become frustrated with cyclists or pedestrians or assume ill intent Share the Road

A bicycle is considered a vehicle in Virginia. Bicyclists have the same duties & rights as vehicles. Bicyclists must obey traffic signs, signals, lights and markings.markings. A bicycle should always travel in the same direction as motor vehicle traffic. 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. The Facts:

1. Motorists are required to use signals, cyclists must do the same using hand signals. 2. Behaving in a predictable manner while driving, biking, or walking will reduce the risk of crashes. 3. 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. 4. Cyclists should wear bright clothing, using flashing lights during day and night, and by securing loose clothing. Facts II:

Pedestrians must travel against traffic, use sidewalks when available, and use marked crossings when possible. Motorists and cyclists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, both marked and unmarked, when making a right turn on red, or as instructed by law enforcement or traffic control devices. Local ordinance determines use of sidewalks by bicycles. When permitted to be on sidewalks, bicycles should yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian. Did you know?

To learn more about biking and walking the roadways of Virginia, visit: sharingtheroadinvirginia.org Remember - we’re all on the road together.

Contact Us Rob Richardson Public Relations & Outreach Manager