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Pulaski County, Virginia | Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Week

Last year in Virginia 88 people died while walking or cycling on state roads; about 2,000 more were injured.
 
Pulaski Town Council and the county Board of Supervisors each voted this week to declare Sept. 11-17 as Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Week.
Drive Smart Virginia and Bike Walk Virginia have partnered to promote this third annual event across the state.

Several tips localities are encouraged to promote during the awareness week to promote safety include:

•Virginia law requires motorists to yield to pedestrians using crosswalks and pedestrians are encouraged to use crosswalks whenever possible;

•Motorists must allow at least two feet (preferably three) when passing a bicyclist;

•Cyclists should always ride on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic;

•A bicycle is considered a vehicle in Virginia and has the same duties and rights as motor vehicles on the road. This includes obeying all traffic signs, signals, lights and markings;

•All safety precautions should be used. A safety belt should be worn in a car, and a helmet on a bicycle. Cyclists can also protect themselves by wearing bright clothing, using flashing lights during day and night, and by securing loose clothing;

•Pedestrians also can improve safety by wearing bright colors during the day and reflective material or blinking lights at night. Light colored clothing is slightly helpful in making you visible at night, but reflective tape or reflective fabric is much better, and

•Bicyclists should follow local ordinances with regards to riding on sidewalks. When permitted to be on sidewalks, bicycles should yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and give an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian.

To read the full article; www.southwesttimes.com

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