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Motorists, Bicyclists and the Roadway Ahead
Contributed by Jim Wilson, President of Lockheed Martin Recreational Association Bicycle Club and Benbrook City Council Member
Riding a bicycle can make anyone feel like a kid again. Unfortunately, unlike what many of us were taught as the “rules of the road” as children, bicycles must be ridden with the flow of traffic and operated as a vehicle when utilizing public roadways (a person operating a bicycle has the same rights and duties applicable to a driver operating a vehicle, Texas Traffic Code, Sec. 551.101).
The youthful enjoyment of bicycling must never detract from bicyclists’ alertness of their surroundings nor adherence of the law.
A renewed recognition of the importance of bicycling throughout Texas is beginning to provide safer bicycle access. The recent adoption of the BIKE Fort Worth Plan, the approval of Safe Passing ordinances in San Antonio, Austin, Helotes and New Braunfels, and an increase in bike lanes, routes, and trails highlight some major steps forward. Future efforts must include education, consideration and adherence to the rules of the road.
On a daily basis, each of us witness motorists breaking traffic laws. It has become such a common practice that we rarely recognize it. Seldom do we notice ourselves or others exceeding the speed limit, rolling through stop signs or failing to yield.
In contrast, bicyclists are a less-common sight for the motoring public. They are not a normal part of the day’s visual fabric. When a bicyclist breaks the law, the act jumps out and grabs our immediate attention.
A successful motorist/bicyclist relationship demands mutual consideration and observance of the law.
When a motorist fails to safely pass and/or recognize a bicyclist’s right to the roadway, the outcome can be tragic. Additionally, bicyclists wield a double-edged sword when they fail to stop for red lights or stop signs. They place themselves at risk, and their actions negatively impact the public’s impression of all other bicyclists. The impact is far-reaching.
Before heading out on a bicycle, riders should consider this simple phrase: Stop, look and be seen.
- STOP at all red lights and stop signs.
- LOOK to ensure it is safe to proceed. Stay alert at all times.
- Be SEEN as a positive ambassador for all bicyclists by following the laws of the road.
The roadway ahead requires a “share the road” understanding from everyone. We should always remember it is not just a bicycle, nor a big automobile on the road — it may be your neighbor, a friend or a co-worker. As a motorist we must recognize the rights of bicyclists. As bicyclists we must take pride in being an ambassador for all bicyclists by riding safely and lawfully.
Texas is a wonderful place. Let’s strive to safely enjoy and share it with others.
Jim Wilson
Place 5, Benbrook City Council President LMRA Bicycle Club
Place5@cityofbenbrook.com www.lmrabicycleclub.com
Photo: Jim Wilson on his bike
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