Summer increases pedestrian and bicycle traffic, both for recreation and as a primary mode of transportation. Plus, gas prices in the last few years have resulted in an increase in bicycle purchases and other non-motorized alternative transportation, especially in Kansas’ urban areas.
Bicycle trips make up only 1% of all trips in the United States. However, bicyclists account for over 2% of people who die in a crash involving a motor vehicle on our nation’s roads, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
To stay safe while enjoying the recreational benefits of bicycling, the Kansas Department of Transportation reminds bicyclists, motorists and pedestrians to follow these guidelines:
Bicyclists
- Wear a helmet and bright or reflective clothing.
- Follow the rules of the road and bike with the traffic flow.
- People on bikes, just like motorists, must obey all traffic control devices.
- Keep in mind, it takes longer to travel through an intersection on a bike; plan to stop for yellow lights.
- Avoid cars that run red lights by waiting for the signal to turn green and scan to make sure it’s clear.
- All states require bicyclists on the roadway to follow the same rules as motorists.
- Signal your moves.
- Look for hazards, such as cars pulling out and pedestrians.
Drivers
- Look for pedestrians everywhere, especially at crosswalks.
- Never pass cars at a crosswalk, they may be stopped for pedestrians.
- Slow down, be prepared to stop.
- Pass bicyclists with at least 3 feet of space.
Pedestrians
- Walk on sidewalk or designated pedestrian path.
- Be visible and predictable, crossing streets in well-lit areas.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions such as your phone.
- Don’t assume drivers and bicyclists see you.
Maneuvering Through Roundabouts on a Bike
- Ride like a car. If you are comfortable riding in traffic, ride on the circular roadway of the roundabout like a car.
- Obey the same driving instructions as you would driving a car — watch for vehicles crossing your path to leave or join the roundabout and watch for large vehicles on the roundabout as they need more space to maneuver. On the approach to the roundabout entry, signal your intentions and merge into traffic. Ride in the center of the lane and assume your place in traffic just like a car. Remember that drivers should be traveling at about 15 to 20 mph — close to the speed you ride your bicycle.
- Walk like a pedestrian. If you are uncomfortable riding in traffic in the roundabout, dismount and exit the approach lane before the splitter island and move to the sidewalk. Once on the sidewalk, walk your bicycle like a pedestrian.
- Use a shared bicycle-pedestrian path. Some roundabouts have a widened sidewalk or a shared bicycle-pedestrian path that runs around the roundabout outside of the circular roadway. Be courteous to pedestrians and yield to them.
Sources: Kansas Department of Transportation, The League of American Bicyclists