Riding Safely
by Mike Barker

Bike To The Bay is a fun filled event that draws thousands of participants through out the US who get on their bikes to raise funds in behalf of the MS Society. Perhaps better known as the MS-150, it is expected to draw ~1,500 who will fill the scenic back roads of Delaware from Smyrna to Rehoboth Beach. It promises to be a fun filled, festive occasion. In fact, there are those who never ride their bicycles except when they ride for the MS 150.

Unfortunately, an event like this can be marred when accidents happen, and the festivities suddenly fade if someone is injured. Furthermore, the potential for an accident is heightened when riding in a large group. Fortunately, the odds of this happening can be lowered by taking certain precautions when riding in a large group, and while riding with the flow of motor vehicle traffic.

Riding in traffic is contrary to the instincts of many. Cars outnumber bicycles many times and, without question, are much larger than a bicycle. Since cars require far more space, bikes are often perceived as a nuisance that impede the flow of traffic. Not withstanding, bicycles can drive safely on the same roads with motor vehicles. John Forester, author of Effective Cycling and past director of the League of American Wheelman’s Effective Cycling Program, has always maintained that, "Bicyclists fare better when they drive and behave as operators of motor vehicles". Often, this principle has been shown to be quite true.

Consider the following issues that can arise when bicycles and cars occupy the same road. Since cars move faster than bikes, they often approach the cyclist from behind and will attempt to pass. Delaware law requires that a bicycle stay as close to the shoulder so as not to impede the normal flow of traffic. It likewise mandates riding no more than two abreast. When the roadway is narrow, the motorist is obliged to wait until he can safely pass as if he were passing another car.

Pinch points most often arise when traffic lanes merge into a single lane, or when roads approach intersections. Changing lanes to make turns will create these same pinch points, and can be troublesome for the cyclist to negotiate. According to Delaware law, when bicycles are traveling on narrow roads in an area with the posted speed limit less than 30 M.P.H., the cyclist has the right to use that lane, and the motorist is expected to share it. Still, one should do so cautiously!

Parked cars often place the cyclist into the road when passing these vehicles. In addition to those cars coming from behind, one must be cautious to watch for motorists opening the door to leave the vehicle. The cyclist must allow sufficient space to avoid colliding with an opening door.

Riding in a large group raises issues in addition to those one encounters from motor vehicle traffic. One can easily be distracted while "socializing" during the ride. Road and weather conditions can create hazards, and a large group requires one to look out for those riding in front as well as in back you. It is vital that one be observant at all times to these changing surroundings. Make certain that you are visible, and that your intentions are clearly communicated to those riding with you. Call attention to road debris, potholes, or anything that clutters the road ahead. Give warning of cars approaching from the front as well as those from behind. Use signals when turning, and when slowing or stopping. Better yet, tell those around you when turning, changing lanes, or stopping.

While there are many issues related to bicycle safety, riding in a predictable manner, using vocal and hand signals to communicate your intentions, and being visible will give you, the cyclist, a margin of safety as well as insure a pleasant ending.