Making the Roads Safe for Everyone...

The roads belong to everyone who travels along them, regardless of how that traveling takes place. But some of those travelers are more vulnerable. The car is more vulnerable than the truck. The motorcycle more vulnerable than the bicycle, and the pedestrian most vulnerable of all. But we have seen an increased number of bike/car accidents, in part because there are more bikes on the road.

The law is clear - bicyclists and motorists share responsibility for keeping everyone safe on our roads. There are eight "rules of the road" to improve bicycle safety:

kids learning bike safety in District 1

1. Bicyclists may ride on all Minnesota roads, except where restricted - such as interstates.
2. Bicyclists should ride on the road and must ride in the same direction as traffic.
3. Motorists must maintain a three-foot clearance at all times when passing a bicyclist.
4. Bicyclists must obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as motorists do.
5. Motorists and bicyclists must yield the right of way to each other.
6. Bicyclists must signal their turns and should ride in a predictable manner.
7. Bicyclists must use a headlight and rear reflectors when it's dark.
8. Bicyclists should always wear helmets and bright reflective gear.

For information about the "Share the Road" bicycle safety education program, bicycle crash statistics and resource materials, visit the ShareTheRoad website. Safety videos for adults and kids are available at the MNDOT website.

Submitted by MnDOT

PS We still have reflective vests for kids and a few bike helmets left (3 kids L). If you have a young person in need of this safety gear - contact our office (651.578.7600 or district1council@aol.com).