 Sharing The Road
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Safe Lane Changes & Turns
1. Plan ahead
- If you are familiar with the traffic patterns, be sure to get in the correct position early
- Keep in mind the relative speed between you and other traffic; plan accordingly
- Be aware of road conditions that would impede your progress across lanes
2. Scan
- Look for traffic, pedestrians and hazards in front of you and behind
- Identify lane markings and traffic control devices affecting the next intersection
- Note bus stops, driveways, crosswalks and other special traffic zones
3. Signal
- Signal your intention to turn or change lanes if your speed is near other traffic
- Signaling may not be necessary if overtaking traffic speeds won't allow time to see it
- Signal only if you think that oncoming traffic can react safely
4. Act
- Relative speed may require you to move quickly and decisively when it's safe to do so
- In high-speed overtaking-traffic situations, cross all lanes at once when safe
- Move after signaling in low- and same-speed traffic situations
5. Improvise
- If you get caught between lanes while crossing traffic, ride the white line until clear
- Your safety is paramount while changing lanes; if traffic is too heavy, use crosswalks
- Ride to the red light then move to the left turn lane if volume and speed do not allow crossing
Tip courtesy of the League of American Bicyclists (bikeleague.org).
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