City of Fishers, NHTSA partner to prevent bicycle crashes

FISHERS, Ind. (WISH) – The City of Fishers and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) is partnering to promote bicycle safety this summer.

Fishers is joining the NHTSA to focus on drivers’ awareness of bicyclists during the summer season in an effort to prevent crashes and injuries.

“Sharing the road means drivers’ and cyclists have a responsibility to look out for each other and to respect each other,” said Chief George Kehl. “Cycling has become very popular in our vibrant city both as a means of transportation and recreation, we need to increase safety awareness among motorists and cyclists alike.”

The City of Fishers and the NHTSA are offering these tips with drivers when it comes to sharing the road with bicyclists:

• Bicyclists may ride 2 abreast in a lane of travel
• Respect designated bicycle lanes; don’t use them for parking, passing or turning
• Pass bicyclists on the road with care; allow at least three feet of clearance
• Yield to bicyclists at intersections
• Look for bicyclists before turns, either right or left
• When parked, look for bicyclists before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space
• Never drive distracted or impaired
• Do not pass bicyclists on the left at intersections where a turn was indicated
• Bicyclists should ride defensively
• Always wear a properly fitted helmet
• Ride in the same direction as traffic, as a vehicle on the road
• Never ride three abreast and avoid riding two abreast with too much space between bikes
• Obey traffic signs, signals, and lane markings; signal all turns; and follow local laws
• Be predictable; ride in a straight line and indicate any turns
• Stay focused; look ahead for traffic and obstacles in your path
• Be visible; wear bright colors, reflective materials and lights on your bicycle
• Stay alert; don’t use electronic devices

The Parks Director, Tony Elliott said bicycling has become popular in Fishers, and the City of Fishers wants to ensure safety of everyone on the road.