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Non-Profit Happenings June 2011
Tips For Bicyclists

Tips For Motorists

Share the Road Campaign

UDOT and UDPS Road Respect Ad

As an increasing number of cyclists are taking to Utah's roads for commuting and pleasure, the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) are sponsoring a "Road Respect" share the road campaign designed to inform motorists and cyclists about the rules of the road. The program's tagline, "Cars and Bikes. Rules to Live by." is a reminder that respect is a two-way street.

To kick off the educational program, a group of 25 cyclists from UDOT, DPS, law enforcement, health departments, other state agencies and bicycle advocacy groups will participate in a weeklong bike tour, dubbed the Road Respect Tour, beginning June 13 in Logan concluding in St. George on June 18th.

As the ride moves from town to town, community Road Respect Rallies and Stops will be hosted, with the goal of increasing respect among motorists and cyclists. The public is invited to participate and attend these free events. Join this traveling group in Moab, Thursday, June 16th at Swanny Park.


Road Respect Logo

7am - Ride the Moab Canyon Trail to Dead Hose Point State Park (park pass or entry fee req'd)
1-4pm - Join the Rally with entertainment and family fun (Motorists and cyclists welcome!!)
1:30pm - Join the kids and parents parade of bikes and cruise Mill Creek Bike/Pedestrian Path



Rules of the Road—Tips for Cyclists and Motorists (abbreviated list; see website for complete list)

Picture of cyclists 1


Tips for cyclists

  • When not impeding traffic, ride no more than two abreast. When a car is coming or when you are riding in traffic, ride single file.

  • Obey all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings. If you want the respect of motorists, you must show respect for traffic laws.

  • Ride predictably.

  • Ride with the flow of traffic.

  • Ride on the right side of the roadway or bike lane as far to the right side as safely possible.

  • It is acceptable to ride in the middle of the lane if you are making a left turn, if there are obstacles impeding the bike lane or if you are moving at the same speed as traffic.

  • Don't weave between parked cars or cars stopped at red lights.

  • Wear bright clothing that increases your visibility to motorists.

  • When riding at dusk or dark, use reflective clothing and lights.

  • Always wear a helmet. Your helmet should sit level on your head and the straps should be snug.

  • Make eye contact with motorists when making a turn, so each party is aware of one another.

  • When entering or crossing a road from a parking lot, driveway or crosswalk, yield to vehicles already on the road.

  • Signal when turning.

  • Be respectful of other road users. Courtesy is contagious.

Picture of cyclists 2


Tips for motorists

  • Give at least three feet of space when passing a bicyclist. If traveling on higher-speed roads, give more space.

  • Watch for bicycles in traffic; they are smaller and harder to see.

  • Don't underestimate the speed of a bicyclist. Many bicyclists can easily travel at 25-30 mph.

  • Slow down around cyclists.

  • When driving near a child on a bike, be prepared for the unexpected.

  • When turning left, yield to any vehicle, including a bicycle approaching from the opposite direction.

  • When turning right and passing a cyclist, leave plenty of room between cyclists who are also turning right.

  • Be patient when driving around cyclists. Roadway conditions may make it necessary for cyclists to ride in the middle of the lane because of potholes, road debris, or a parked vehicle.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and don't drive distracted.

  • Be aware of bicyclists entering the roadway from driveways, intersection sidewalks and other streets.

  • Avoid honking your horn around cyclists, if possible. Car horns are much louder outside of your vehicle and can startle bicyclists and cause dangerous reactions.

  • Be respectful of other road users. Courtesy is contagious.
Free Event. All are invited! Questions or to reserve space, contact 259-3193, info@skinnytireevents.com.
For full list of TIPS for CYCLISTS and MOTORISTS, contact RoadRespect.Utah.gov.

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