The Evesham Township Police Department is reaching out to local drivers and cyclists to remind them to share the road.
The following information comes from the Evesham Township Police Department:
With the nicer weather ahead for township residents, the Evesham Township Police Department is reaching out to local drivers and cyclists to remind them to ride responsibly and share the road.
When traveling on streets, police say cyclists should follow the same rules of the road as motorized vehicles.
According to police, this means stopping at stop signs, obeying traffic signals and lane markings and using hand signals to let others know one’s intention to stop or turn.
Furthermore, cyclists can follow these tips to be aware of their surroundings:
· Don’t wear headphones — cyclists need to be able to hear if a car is approaching
· Slow down and check for oncoming traffic before entering any street or intersection
· Anticipate hazards and adjust one’s position in traffic accordingly.
· Be predictable — ride with the flow of traffic, on the right and in a straight line
· Be visible and wear the proper protective gear.
· Make eye contact with motorists to let them know one is there (but don’t always expect them to see a cyclist).
· Bicyclists should be particularly mindful of their visibility to other vehicles in the evening, especially when biking during rush hour or later. Legally, cyclists must have a front white light, a rear lamp emitting a red light and a audible device that can be heard from at least 100 feet away.
Police are offering the following safety tips to drivers to increase the safety of cyclists:
· Treat bicycles as one would any other vehicle on the road. Cyclists generally ride in the right-most through traffic lane, near the curb or parked cars.
· When passing a cyclist, leave a safe distance between one’s car and the bicycle. Give extra passing distance during slippery road conditions.
· Pass at a moderate speed and give plenty of space on quiet roads. Cyclists may be startled by fast-approaching vehicles.
· Shoulder check and signal all lane changes and turns.
· Check for bicycles in your side view mirror before opening car doors.
· Obey all traffic laws. Remember, in New Jersey, bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles.
