Editor, Times-Union: Today’s Bike to Work Day reminds us that the number of Hoosiers biking to work has jumped almost 40 percent over the last few years. And that reminds us that, with that many more cyclists on the road, it’s important for everyone to share the road safely. And, yes, we at Bicycle Indiana mean everyone. As a cycling organization, we might be expected to advocate for the “rights” of cyclists over the “responsibilities” of motorists. But we recognize that everyone who uses the roadways - cyclists and motorists -must do so with an alert regard for everyone else on the roadway. To help keep the roadways safe, we’ve encouraging everyone to adopt a “1-2-3” mantra: ONE set of rules: Under Indiana law, bicycles are vehicles, and as such they are expected to follow the same rules as motorists and be afforded the same access to the roadways. This means bicycles should ride with traffic on the right side of the road, stop at all stop signs and stoplights, and should not be squeezed onto a few inches of pavement at the edge of the road. TWO abreast: Bicyclists are permitted to ride two abreast under Indiana law. However, smart cyclists know to fall into single file when conditions require it. THREE feet when passing: Many bicycle-motorist accidents happen because drivers don’t realize how close they are driving to a cyclist or how much room they need to allow. For safety’s sake, cars should allow at least three feet when passing and more when possible. If traffic, road hazards or other reasons make the three-foot buffer impossible, the motorist should wait until the proper passing distance is possible. Indianapolis has made great strides in creating more bicycle-friendly roadways, but no amount of infrastructure improvements in the world will make a difference unless cyclists and motorists all agree to share the road safely. After all, it’s as easy as 1-2-3. Nancy Tibbett Executive Director, Bicycle Indiana Indianapolis, via-email
