May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and the Hollister Police Department is urging everyone to be alert to keep bicyclists safe, says a press release from the local department.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,166 people were killed while riding a bike on U.S. roads in 2023, and an estimated 49,489 bicyclists were injured. In California, there were 145 bicyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2023, says the press release.
“It is important that we keep our bicyclists safe, as they do not have the same protections as drivers and passengers,” said Hollister Police Capt. Michael Paddy. “People of all ages use bicycles to commute to school, work and other activities.
“Bicyclists, like all road users, have the right to safe streets. We encourage drivers and bicyclists to look out for one another and practice safe habits, so we may all go safely.”
Police suggest the following safety tips for bicyclists and drivers:
• Driver should slow down and follow the speed limit. Be careful traveling through intersections.
• Look carefully for bicyclists and pedestrians before making a turn or opening a car door near streets or bike paths.
• Be patient when traveling behind a bicyclist and give them space when passing. California law requires drivers to change a lane, when possible, to pass bicyclists and always pass with at least 3 feet of space.
• Cyclists should use lights at night.
• Although not required for riders 18 and older, always wear a properly secured helmet. Helmets significantly reduce the chance of a head injury in the event of a crash, says the press release.
• Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.
• Yield to pedestrians, just as a driver would. Pedestrians have the right-of-way within marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
Funding for the local program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
