DARLINGTON - With the onset of warmer weather and the inevitable increase in bicycle usage, the City of Darlington Police Department wishes to remind everyone of the need to share the road in a responsible manner. Both motorists and bikers need to remember they have equal rights when it comes to the use of our streets and highway systems. However, with those rights come certain responsibilities. Officers offer the following tips:
Bicyclists:
• Obey all the same laws as motorists, including right-of-way laws and laws that regulate stopping at intersections.
• Parents should take the time to talk with their children about traffic laws as well as safe biking.
• Signal turns and wear a bike helmet.
Motorists:
• Pay special attention for bikers and give them space since many of them are kids who may not know the rules of the road as well as you.
• When passing bicyclists, go slow and leave at least three feet of passing distance.
• Motorists should always check for bicyclists before opening their vehicle doors in order to avoid potential injuries.
As always, anyone who may have questions about these, or any, laws are welcome to call the department at (608) 776-4980 or visit the department's Web site at www.darlingtonwi.org.
Bicyclists:
• Obey all the same laws as motorists, including right-of-way laws and laws that regulate stopping at intersections.
• Parents should take the time to talk with their children about traffic laws as well as safe biking.
• Signal turns and wear a bike helmet.
Motorists:
• Pay special attention for bikers and give them space since many of them are kids who may not know the rules of the road as well as you.
• When passing bicyclists, go slow and leave at least three feet of passing distance.
• Motorists should always check for bicyclists before opening their vehicle doors in order to avoid potential injuries.
As always, anyone who may have questions about these, or any, laws are welcome to call the department at (608) 776-4980 or visit the department's Web site at www.darlingtonwi.org.