advertisement

Bikes, cars must both obey safety rules

Spring has arrived and more bicyclists are out on the roads. Most of us who ride bicycles are also motorists at times, so we are aware of how bikes and cars can best coexist.

Yes, bicycles do legally belong on the road, and, as a cyclist, I want to thank the majority of motorists who drive safely and courteously when bikes are around. Most motorists are aware of Illinois' three-foot law and give us a wide berth when passing.

They are also aware that, due to potholes and other obstacles, we cannot always ride as far to the right as we would like.

Most motorists also take into account, when pulling out or making a turn, the fact that any bicycle in the vicinity may be traveling at a speed of 15 miles per hour or faster.

Responsible bicyclists know that we need to follow all of the rules of the road. As a motorist and a cyclist, it disturbs me when I see cyclists riding on the left, against traffic. This is illegal and unsafe.

We also need to obey traffic signals just as motorists do. Although it is legal for bicyclists to ride two abreast, we will move to single file when a car is approaching from the rear.

Disturbing to me as both a cyclist and a motorist is the fact that so many drivers still seem to be unaware that Illinois has laws prohibiting texting and hand-held cellphone use while driving. Distracted driving is dangerous to all other road users.

And please, for the safety of everyone on the road, we all need to be consistently signaling our lane changes and turns.

Thank you to the responsible motorists and bicyclists who help to make the roads safe for all users.

Paula Matzek Mount Prospect

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.