FRESNO (KMJ) — May is National Bicycle Safety Month, the month designed to highlight safety on the roads.
But the time of awareness comes at the same time a cyclist was killed earlier this week in Fresno. That victim was discovered on the roadway by someone on his way to work Wednesday morning, with the remains of his bike discovered nearby.
This month riders are being warned to remain focused, have the right protective gear, and know the rules of the highway.
“With the summer months approaching, the weather getting warmer, we’re going to see more people on bicycles,” says CHP Officer Steve Beal. He adds that everyone on the road needs to be responsible.
“So if you see a cyclist, the law is to give them 3 feet of space. If you can give them more, absolutely. If you can change lanes, if you there’s an adjacent lane that’s available and you can move over safely, do so. Give them more space just to create a safer environment.
“But at least 3 feet.”
Fresno Police adds that it is up to road users to be a “roll model” and share the road while showing mutual respect.
Figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveal 818 riders were killed, and over 45,000 injured, in crashes across the United States in 2015.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
