May is National Bike Month. With more people choosing to ride bicycles for health, financial and environmental reasons, it is important that cyclists and motorists work together to make Lawrence’s streets safe for everyone. 

Cyclists are vehicle operators and have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. When sharing the road with bicycles, be aware that cyclists are less visible and quieter than other road users and more vulnerable.

The City of Lawrence recommends the following for motorists to help keep everyone safe:

  • Yield to pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Never pass and turn across the path of a moving bicyclist. Slow down and turn behind the cyclist.
  • Allow at least three feet of passing space between you and the bicycle.
  • Do not blast your horn when approaching a bicyclist – you may startle him/her.
  • Do not accelerate to pass cyclist when approaching a stop sign.

 Bicyclists must also follow the rules of the road including these additional tips for safety:

  • Obey all traffic rules, signals and stop signs.
  • Use head and tail lights at night and always wear your helmet!
  • Do not ride on downtown sidewalks.
  • Never ride more than two abreast.
  • Always ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Always use hand signals when turning.
  • Do not ride with headphones.

Have you seen Lawrence's Bicycle Rideability Map? Pick one up at City Hall or view it online at http://www.lawrenceks.org/mpo/bikemap.

For more information visit: www.lawrenceks.org/share_the_road