Bicycles: Same roads, same destination, same rules

It wasn’t a Lab-sponsored or recognized event. Lab officials had very real safety concerns related to traffic, road construction and the nature of the area’s winding roads. But a few employees ride bikes to work daily, and the roads on the Oak Ridge Reservation often feature two-wheelers on the shoulder.

Bicycles are also, in fact, a means preferred by many for getting around the Lab campus. ORNL Reporter even pedals around on its own rig.

Motorists and bicyclists share an uneasy existence. Motorists are often frustrated when they approach a bicyclist and are forced to slow down. Cyclists are often tense and nervous when approached by an automobile. A lack of instruction and poor habits often culminate in unsafe situations.

“Cyclists share the same roads with automobiles and are subject to the same rules,” says Ray Brittain of the Instrumentation and Controls Division. “Many motorists believe that bicycles should not be on the roads. In fact, federal law requires states to make bicycling and walking safer and more viable ways of travel.”

Ray passes along a few tips toward a détente between motorists and cyclists.

Safety tips for cyclists

• Always wear a helmet. This is your most important piece of safety gear.
• Be alert. Always be aware that a motorist might not see you.
• Signal your intentions—use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
• Use a mirror. This allows you to be aware of traffic approaching from behind.
• Follow traffic rules as if you are driving an auto. Ride with traffic, not against it.
• Ride as near to the right-hand side of the road as practical, while avoiding road hazards that could cause you to swerve into traffic.
• Be predictable. Do not weave in and out of traffic or parked cars.
• As is the case with all slow moving vehicles, you are required by Tennessee law to get off the highway when more than five vehicles are unable to pass.

• Be alert. Like motorcycles, bicycles are harder to see than autos.
• Don’t honk. This can startle a cyclist and cause him or her to swerve.
• When passing, be sure to clear the cyclist before moving back into your lane.
• Cyclists who are not on the extreme right- hand side of the lane are not being careless, but are in fact attempting to avoid hazards that could cause an accident.
• No cyclist’s speed can be taken for granted. With today’s improved equipment, some bicyclists may be traveling 25 or 30 miles per hour, if not faster. Others will be travelling at much slower speeds.
• Drivers turning left in front of oncoming cyclists cause a large percentage of car/cycle accidents.
• Overtaking, then making a right turn in front of the cyclist is also a cause of many accidents.—B.C.