Guest Editorial-Share The Road

Very soon, “Share the Road” signs will be appearing along popular cycling routes in Northeast Arkansas. 

The number of cyclists in Region 8 is growing everyday. Folks are riding for exercise and fun, or because they want a greener way to get around.  Riding a bike is fun and practical, but dealing with traffic can be intimidating, especially to a new cyclist.  Some folks think that bikes don’t belong on the road and are unaware of the laws regarding bicycle use.  Bikes do belong on the road, and they have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. 

Most drivers are polite, careful, and want to do the right thing, but are unsure of what to do when approaching a cyclist.  What a motorist should do is this: slow down and pass with care, giving the rider the minimum 3 feet buffer that is required by law.  That may mean waiting for oncoming traffic to pass, but that show of patience and courtesy will keep everyone safe.

Cyclists should return this courtesy to motorists by obeying ALL traffic laws.  That means stopping at stop signs, signaling turns, and having proper lighting at night.  A cyclist that ignores the law is subject to the same penalties as a motorist.

The Northeast Arkansas Bicycle Coalition hopes that when drivers see these signs, they will remember to be attentive and look out for cyclists on the road, and that when cyclists see these signs that they will remember that they have a responsibility on the road, too.  When all road users stay safe, that makes for A Better Region 8. 

Comments

[Marie South]

If Jonesboro motorists cannot share the road with pedestrians, how can anyone expect them to do so with cyclists? At the few 'walk' lights installed around town, motorists do not acknowledge them or the people trying to safely cross the road.

Yesterday while out walking, I approached the intersection of East Highland and Fair Park Blvd. When the 'walk' light appeared, did anyone bother yielding to the pedestrians? NO! If I hadn't had the good sense to stop, I would have been hit by a car. I think this is a serious matter and laws should be enforced. The city of Jonesboro and those who travel the streets need to realize that just because we are not behind the wheel means we are invisible.