Indiana cyclist urges drivers to share road

A few weeks back, in the Ft. Wayne Journal-Gazette, an article appeared about bicycle safety.

This prompted a Letter to the Editor by Brian C. Ternet, of Ft. Wayne.

While expressing appreciation for the article he considers himself fortunate only to be chased off the road, and sometimes yelled at by un-informed louts in cars.

However his letter is not just about giving advice to his car driving neighbors, but to his fellow cyclists as well.

He writes:

Drivers, please do not forget that cyclists are entitled to use public roads. While it may be a tad inconvenient to slow down until oncoming traffic affords the opportunity to pass, it is only a few moments of your time. The knowledge that your neglect disfigured or killed another human being will last a lifetime. Bicycles are legal to ride on the road and therefore must be afforded the same respect given to any other vehicle.

Bicyclists, please take all reasonable measures to flow with traffic. Ride safely and without quick or sudden direction changes. Be sure to ride on the right side of the road; parents, please reinforce this with your children. I’ve witnessed many kids riding their bikes on the left side of the road, which is illegal and extremely dangerous. Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, especially while riding at night. Reflectors and flashing lights are inexpensive and make your bike visible to all varieties of motorized vehicles. In the event the unfortunate cannot be avoided, a helmet may be the difference between life and death.

He ends by observing that "Through mutual respect, automobiles and bicycles can certainly share Fort Wayne’s roads in a civil manner, thus improving our city’s image as a great place to live, work and play."

Well said, Brian!

July 5th-- Drivers, Bicyclists, share the road.