Matthew Toyota Asks Drivers to Share the Road With Bikes

Oct 8, 2012

Although most bike accidents happen when the cyclist loses control of the vehicle, the most dangerous accidents happen when a car and bike crash into each other. Matthew Toyota wants drivers to know what they can do to share the road with bikes and make the streets safer for everyone.

Keep Your Distance

Sure, it’s a little frustrating for drivers who get stuck behind cyclists on single-lane roads, but you can’t let that frustration turn into aggression. Stay at least three car lengths behind the cyclist to make sure you have plenty of space.

If you decide to pass the cyclist, only do so in safe areas. That means safe for you and the bike rider. It’s best to keep at least a yard between your car and the bike when passing.

Stay Calm

Getting frustrated doesn’t solve anything. While you’re sitting in your car with the air conditioning on, that cyclist ahead of you is going a lot of work to make it down the road. Try to appreciate the luxuries that your car offers. This could help you stay calm.

It also helps to give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, especially if you know you’ll use roads frequented by bikers. Having more time means you can relax instead of worrying that you’ll arrive late.

Let Other People Know the Law

Make sure other people know the rules of the road. That includes cyclists and drivers. When you hear someone talk about riding on the sidewalk, tell them that it’s a bad idea because drivers can’t see them. At the same time, tell drivers who complain about bikes that cyclists have a right to use the roads and that it’s up to everyone to keep conditions safe.