CHP reminds motorist of new law to give bicyclists more space
With children back in school, motorists should expect to see more children riding to and from school on their bicycles. The California Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that on Sept. 16, a new law affecting motorists and bicyclists took effect.
According to the law, a driver must allow 3 feet of distance when overtaking or passing a bicyclist. If 3 feet is not available, a driver must then slow to a safe speed and pass when no danger is present.
“Motorists are reminded to pay close attention with school now in session and exercise caution when they see bicyclists on the road,” said CHP Commander Joe Farrow. “Be sure to move over or slow down to pass when you see a bicyclist on the road and help keep our roadways a safer place.”
According to data from the statewide Integrated Traffic Records System in 2012, there were 153 bicyclists killed in California, which reflects a 7 percent increase from 2011. Those deaths accounted for 5 percent of the total collisions fatalities in California.
“As important as it is for vehicles to be mindful of our bicycists, those who ride must exercise safe practices and ride smart,” added Farrow. “With both drivers and bicyclists doing their part, we can help reduce the number of tragedies involving bicyclists.”
The danger surrounding motor vehicle traffic is just one aspect of a child’s safe passage to and from school. According to Safekids.org more children ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries related to bicycling than any other sport. Bicycle helmets, which are required by law for children under 18 years of age in California, can reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by 88 percent – yet only 45 percent of children 14 and under usually wear them.
The CHP joins with SafeKids.org in offering the following traffic safety tips for bicyclists:
This story was originally published September 25, 2014 at 12:00 AM with the headline "CHP reminds motorist of new law to give bicyclists more space."