Full Notification

Cyclists vs. Motorized Vehicles
Highways don't have to be a battleground.

Spring is here and so are the bicyclists, enjoying the fresh sunny days on Bonner county roads. With increased use of the roads by bicyclists, crashes with motorists are inevitable. However, the number of incidents can be limited, and the severity of them reduced if both bicyclists and motorists take a few extra precautions.

The number one thing bicyclists have to keep in mind is that while on the road, they have to act like a motorized vehicle. Bicyclists have every right to be in the road, but they need to follow the rules of the road. Cyclists are expected to follow traffic laws and can be cited for running stop signs, speeding and other violations. When traveling in groups, lane usage should mirror that of a car, do not take up the entire roadway by riding four and five abreast.

Because they are considered a vehicle, bicyclists should maneuver like a car or a truck. They should signal with their arms before changing lanes or turning and they should never weave through traffic. Bicyclists on public roads should always ride with the flow
of traffic. Riders going against the flow of traffic are harder to see, approach faster, and make intersections tricky. Most importantly, they are not moving like a predictable vehicle. Riding in a predictable pattern is the safest strategy a bicyclist can employ.

Here in Bonner County we are fortunate to have numerous bike lanes and they should be used. If there is no designated bike lane, cyclists are entitled to the road just as if they were a motorized vehicle.

When passing a bicyclist, motorists should give the cyclists at least a three foot cushion and do not increase your speed too much during the pass.

Riders should always wear a helmet as your chances of surviving a crash are greatly improved by having one on. Riders should wear brightly colored clothing and preferably something that is reflective. Always be aware of your surroundings and have an escape and avoidance strategy in mind for road hazards.

Not all car vs bike collisions are the car's fault. We all can enjoy the beauty of north Idaho through the use of our roads if we follow the rules of the road and are courteous and respectful to all who use our thoroughfares.