Spring is now upon us and as the days get warmer, we will see an increase in bicycle riders upon the roadways. As a bicyclist it is important that you remember to follow the rules of the road when peddling around town.
Just as a motorist needs to wear a seatbelt while operating a motor vehicle, you should be wearing a bicycle helmet.
I cannot express enough the importance of wearing this item as you will be riding with vehicle traffic and could possibly crash due to an errant driver or while avoiding roadway debris that may be along your path of travel. Make sure that you select the correct helmet as size and fit are important in order to protect your head should you crash while riding.
Carson City has many bike paths and lanes and more are on the way as this activity is becoming more and more popular. Even though we have many designated areas for riding, there will still be times when a bicycle will be sharing the roadway with you.
As a driver you must remain at least three feet away from a bicyclist when passing. This helps to keep you and the rider safe when next to each other as well as giving you both some room should one or the other need to maneuver in order to avoid a hazard in the road.
As a rider you must obey all traffic laws including stopping for stop signs and signal lights. Cutting across the roadway in front of traffic is not only dangerous it is illegal. As a motorist, you must always be prepared for the unexpected rider who may not be riding as they should.
Temperatures are not the only thing that rises when the weather gets warmer. Keep a cool head when riding or driving. Be considerate to those you share the road with.
— Writer Sgt. Scott McDaniel is with the Carson City Sheriff's Office. He writes a weekly column on public safety matters in the Carson City community