Patrol urges cyclists, drivers to use caution

Summer months and higher fuel prices appear to be bringing more bicyclists to Missouri's roadways; so, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers and riders that Missouri has several laws related to riding a bicycle.

Riding a bicycle on the sidewalk within a business district is prohibited; when riding a bicycle elsewhere upon a sidewalk, the bicycle rider shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give audible signal before overtaking and passing any pedestrian. Bicycle riders, when riding upon a street or highway, are granted all the rights and are subject to all the traffic regulations applicable to drivers of motor vehicles, except those that by their very nature do not apply.

A bicyclist is required to ride as near the right side of the roadway as is safe, exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction; except when making a left turn, when the lane is too narrow to share with another vehicle, or when on a one-way street.

Bicyclists may ride abreast when not impeding other vehicles. Bicyclists must also obey all traffic signals and signs, the same as required of drivers of other vehicles. Use hand signals to let others know you will turn left, right, or stop.

When riding a bicycle after dark bicycles ridden must have the following:

* A white light mounted to the front of the bicycle or carried by the rider visible at 500 feet.

* A rear facing red reflector of at least two square inches or a red lamp visible at 600 feet.

* Reflective material and/or lights visible from the front and rear on any moving part of the bicycle's pedals or crank arms, or the bicyclist's shoes or lower legs, which can be seen at 200 feet.

* Reflective material and/or lights on each side of the bicycle or bicyclist visible at 300 feet.

A bicycle must be equipped with a brake or brakes that will enable its driver to stop the bicycle within 25 feet from a speed of 10 miles per hour on dry, level, clean pavement.

Penalties for violations of this law range from not less than $5 to not more than $25 for people 17 years of age or older. For those under 17, a provision allows an officer witnessing a violation to impound the bicycle for a period not to exceed five days.

Although not required by state law, wearing a bicycle helmet while riding is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself. Between 70-80 percent of fatal bicycle crashes involved head injuries. Statistics show bicycle helmets are 85-88 percent effective in reducing total head and brain injuries. Be sure your helmet is the proper size, and adjust the straps for a snug fit.

When riding your bicycle, follow these important safety tips:

* Never carry passengers.

* Walk your bike across busy intersections.

* Don't hitch rides on other vehicles.

* Give pedestrians the right-of-way.

* Use horn or bell to warn those who may not see you.

* Don't perform stunts on streets or sidewalks.

* Keep both hands on the handlebars except when signaling.

* Wear light-colored or reflective clothing when riding after dark.

* Keep your bicycle in safe condition.

* Always ride with caution and courtesy.

"In 2007, nine people were killed and 548 injured in traffic crashes involving a bicycle," said Col. James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. "Please pay attention whether your driving a vehicle or riding a bicycle. Understand and obey the law and keep safety in mind."