Share the Road is a code of conduct that promotes cyclist and motorist safety by educating all road users to behave courteously and predictably.
In Marin, the Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC), Marin General Hospital, and Marin County Law Enforcement have created a partnership to promote "Share the Road" programs to motorists and bicyclists. As Marin is a cycling mecca all year round for residents and visitors, the issue of road safety is ever present.
Although many people both drive a motor vehicle and ride a bicycle, there often seems to be an “us against them” attitude present when using the public roads.
Motorists’ Perspective:
Cyclists are often viewed as rude, arrogant, and in the way. Many motorists feel that cyclists do not belong on the road: bikes are toys to some and bikes are not vehicles say others. Many motorists yell at cyclists to “ get on the sidewalk where you belong.” Bicyclists are often perceived as perpetual law breakers. In addition, motorists feel that pedestrians and cyclists don’t pay attention. Drivers often feel it is hard or scary to drive around cyclists.
“ Car drivers say they are confused by the presence of bicycles on the road, and some wish the two-wheelers would just go away. Bicyclists know that cars cause most of their safety concerns.” (“ Bicycle-Friendly Times,” Bicycle-Friendly Berkeley Coalition, September/October 2001, pg. 5)
“ Some people, especially motorists, think that bicycles are dangerous and that the people who ride them are inconsiderate and cause accidents.” ( Along for the Ride/Safety Tips for Cyclists brochure, NHTSA, April 1992)
What motorists would like cyclists to know and do:
- act like vehicles
- don ‘t follow too closely
- don’ t hold onto to other vehicles
- take responsibility for your children
- be visible with proper clothing and accessories
- obey traffic laws
Cyclists’ Perspective:
Cyclists have their unique set of negative feelings about drivers. Drivers pass too closely, speed by without consideration for visibility or oncoming traffic ahead, cut back into the driving lane too quickly, throw things at them, and yell “ Share the Road!” when there is absolutely no more room on the right for the cyclist to move over.
Cyclists are the most vulnerable users of the road, as they do not carry tons of steel armor around them as they ride. Rightly so, cyclists don’ t want to share the roads with motorists who are drunk, drugged, sleepy, inattentive, serial speeders, reckless, unlicensed, or uninsured. Any of these behaviors can be a real and immediate threat to a cyclist.
What cyclists would like motorists to know and do:
- treat cyclists with fairness and respect
- give cyclists plenty of space when passing
- don’ t cut off cyclists when making a right turn
- observe speed limits in residential areas
- be alert for children on their bikes
- look before opening a car door into the path of a cyclist
What it boils down to is that road users - motorists and cyclists alike - should not be stereotyped based on one or two isolated experiences. Bicycling is a safe form of transportation for commuting, errands and recreation. Parents should be able to allow their children to walk and bike to school without worries for their safety. Most importantly,
cyclists and motorists need to change their attitudes toward each other and work together to share the roads – everyone’s life is at stake.
Click here for more information on Marin County's Share the Road campaign activities
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