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Mark Your Calendars

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image via CalBike.org

It's taken years and the ongoing efforts of people and organizations to pass this common sense law that benefits cyclists of all kinds:  The California Three Feet for Safety Act goes into effect this month on the 16th.  It's pretty simple: It establishes a three foot buffer between motorists and cyclists.  If the motorist can't safely pass a cyclist while maintaining the three foot buffer, they must slow to a reasonable speed to pass.  Some think that language has a lot of wiggle room but one fact remains:  If a motorist hits a cyclist they've likely broken the law.  This is important in light of the most recent numbers from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which show that in 2012, nationally 726 cyclists were killed and 49,000 more were injured in crashes with motor vehicles that got too close. 

Many other states already have 3 foot passing rules or laws so this is not the first law of its kind and certainly wont be the last.  Of course if a motorist is unaware of the new law they're not likely to follow it, and there are always those who don't get the message or ignore it; no matter.  The rights of cyclists on California's roadways are taking a leap forward on September 16th.  If you'd like to wear your reminder to motorists you can order 3 ft for safety jerseys and shorts.  The California Bicycle Coalition has Give 3 Feet stickers and window clings on their home page. 

cbcgiveme3-3
image via CalBike.org

Poor cycling habits will eventually catch up with you.  Teaching children good cycling skills early or, learning better habits as an adult – chief among them are, looking before you leap and riding predictably - can pay lifelong dividends.  The NHTSA has a Bicycle Safety Activity Kit for Parents/Caregivers, Teachers and Community Leaders and, closer to home the East Bay Bicycle Coalition has classroom and practical Urban Cycling classes for adults and teens.

 

Send your comments and suggestions to the Newsletter editor

 

Links to articles of interest:

  •  Why cyclists should be able to roll through stop signs  Read more...

 

Long Term Calendar:

 

MembersThe DBC welcomes its New Members!

  • Jim and Wendy Homerosky   
  • Jeff Minniweather

And thanks our renewing members

  • Antonello Cruz family   
  • William Reinert 
  • Kathy Stewart 
  • Jim Wellington   
  • Jeremy Werner 
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