May 16-22 is Bike to Work Week.
Baltimore, Md. (KM) – Thousands of Marylanders are expected to ride their bicycles to work this weak. May 16th through the 22nd is Bike to Work Week. “Bicycling community is an important part of MDOT SHA’s integrated transportation network,” says Charlie Gischlar, spokesman for the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration. “This is a perfect time to highlight the healthy commuting option.”
In 2021, more than 10,000 people registered for Bike to Work Activities in the Baltimore- Washington metropolitan area, according to MDOT SHA.; and with more people returning to the workplace, organizers expect an increase in participants this year.
Gischlar says if you’re planning to take your bicycle to work this week, you need to be safe. “Safety is a two-way street so we encourage bicyclists to stop at all red lights and stop signs, and ride defensively and expect the unexpected. If you can, ride with the traffic, never against it,” he says. Other safety tips include using hand signals when turning or stopping, riding in marked bike lanes and paths when present, and wearing a correctly fitting helmet.
If you’re taking your car to work, Gischlar says keep an eye out for bicyclists. “There’s no contest between a vehicle and bicycle. So at least give them at least three feet–one yard of space–when passing. That is the law. It’s encouraged to give them more if you can, but make sure they feel safe as well,” he says.
Motorists are also urged to yield the right of way to bicyclists when turning right; keeping your eyes on the road and not on the phone; and looking for bicyclists before opening a car door.
By Kevin McManus
