New Bicycle Law Aims To Make Roadways Safer
Photo Credit: KDKA-TV
LAWRENCEVILLE (KDKA) – Liberty Avenuein Lawrenceville can be a pretty busy street, making it stressful for drivers that share the road with bike riders.
For cyclists, there is that fear of getting hit.
"I feel like it's pretty dangerous, especially on the really busy roads," one cyclist said.
But a new law that went into effect on Monday aims at making the roadways a little safer to share on both ends.
Part of the law requires motorists to leave a four-foot cushion when passing a bicyclist. Drivers attempting to turn left must also yield the right of way to bicycle riders traveling in the opposite direction.
Drivers could face a $25 fine if they do not follow the law.
One cyclist agrees with a part of the law that says drivers may also cross the center line to safely pass a cyclist when opposing traffic allows.
"I think that makes it a lot easier than people speeding right beside me," she said.
One driver thought this law may enlighten both cyclists and drivers to be aware of each other and take caution.
"I think it's very good. It's safe for both parties," the driver said.
Some bikers, however, are skeptical that the new rules will help, including one woman who had a close call with a car riding too close to her Monday morning.
"I don't have a lot of optimism," she said. "It seems to me that anyone who's gonna cut off a bicycle anyway, is not really going to be aware or care if there's a law telling them not to."
The law also applies to how cyclists ride in traffic, calling for bike riders to avoid impeding the normal flow of traffic.
