Commonwealth Eyes Wants You To Stay Safe on the Road this Summer

You’ve probably noticed more cyclists on the roads now that the weather is warm. As part of the Share the Road initiative in Lexington, Commonwealth Eyes is helping spread the message to keep an eye out for cyclists and do our part to share the road. Here are some tips for respecting cyclists and helping everyone stay safe on the road:

• Reduce speed when you see cyclists.
• When the weather is bad, give cyclists extra trailing and passing room
• Recognize situations that may be potentially dangerous to cyclists and give them space
• YIELD TO CYCLISTS
• Cyclists are considered vehicles and should be given the appropriate right of way
• Cyclists may take the entire lane when hazards, road width or traffic speed dictate
• Motorists should allow extra time for cyclists to traverse intersections
• BE CONSIDERATE
• Scan for cyclists in traffic and at intersections
• Do not blast your horn in close proximity to cyclists
• Look for cyclists when opening doors
• PASS WITH CARE
• Leave at least three feet of space between your car and a cyclist when passing
• Wait until road and traffic conditions allow you to safely pass
• Check over your shoulder after passing a cyclist before moving back to normal position
• WATCH FOR CHILDREN: Children on bicycles are often unpredictable, so expect the unexpected and slow down. Most children don’t have adequate knowledge of traffic laws and they are harder to see.

Let’s all work together to share the road in Lexington. Happy cycling!