News release from Parkview Health:
Need for motorists to “Share the Road” increases as the temperature rises
(May 22, 2014) — Officials from Parkview Trauma Centers, the City of Fort Wayne, the Indiana State Police, and other partnering agencies today joined in reminding motorists, cyclists and runners that it’s important for everyone to “Share the Road” this time of year. As part of the announcement, the Parkview Trauma Centers team distributed more than 200 helmets to the students at East Wayne Street Head Start.
“As the temperature warms up, Parkview Trauma Centers see a high number of trauma-related injuries that involve those riding bicycles or motorcycles causing serious, if not life-threatening injuries,” said Lisa Hollister, program manager, Parkview Trauma Centers. “Encouraging motorists to allow extra space on the roadways can prevent the life-threatening injuries we see every day.”
“The Share the Road campaign emphasizes a number of very important traffic safety initiatives which, in turn, helps promote the Indiana State Police’s overall goal of public safety,” said Sgt. Ron Galaviz, public information officer, Indiana State Police. “This opportunity for officers to connect with the public on a more personal level allows us a chance to drive home this important safety message in hopes of potentially preventing unnecessary injuries or even death.”
As part of the Share the Road campaign, numerous billboards have been placed throughout the greater Fort Wayne area featuring runners, cyclists and motorcyclists. The billboards will appear on a rotating basis over the next several months. A vehicle donated by Evans Toyota has also been wrapped with a creative design reminding motorists to be aware of their surroundings.
Motorist Safety Tips
- Stay at least three feet from bicycles, one full lane of driving width for motorcycles.
- When turning across traffic, look carefully.
- Turn on your lights at dusk to help cyclists and other motorists see you.
- When passing a bicycle, hug the centerline and pass at 15 mph or less. If no vehicles are approaching from the other direction, cross the centerline slightly to allow the cyclist more room.
- When parking along a street, check for cyclists before opening the car door.
- When turning out of a driveway or onto a new street, it’s best practice to look left, right and left again.
- Rural roads are not city streets. They are often narrower and give you less room to maneuver.
- A horse and buggy averages between 5mph and 8mph.
- A horse is not a machine. Motorists should use care when driving close or passing a buggy as horses can be unpredictable.
- Keep an eye out for signs indicating slow-moving traffic.
Motorcycling Safety Tips
- Always wear a helmet that fits correctly
- Know your bike’s limits
- Stick to posted speed limits
- Don’t tailgate other vehicles
- Always use your signals and remember to turn them off
- Be respectful of other drivers. Don’t weave through traffic or drive on the shoulder.
Cycling Safety Tips
- Wear a bike helmet at all times.
- Don’t text and ride.
- Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals.
- Keep brakes, lights, reflectors, horn or bell, and all safety devices in good working condition.
- Learn and use hand signals for turns and stops.
- Keep both hands on the handle-bars, except to signal a turn or stop.
- Avoid riding after dark. If you must ride after dark, use a headlight and reflectors, and wear light-color clothing.
- Never hold on to a truck, car or other moving vehicles.
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