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TextPolice Department News Release
Fairfax County Police Department
Public Information Office
4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030
703-246-2253. TTY 703-204-2264. Fax 703-246-4253
FCPD-PIO@fairfaxcounty.gov
www.fairfaxcounty.gov
Media
Advisory: Bicycle Safety/CSN
April 3, 2007
Warm Weather Brings out Young Bicyclists
Although young bicyclists should learn the “rules of the road” and this release will provide safety tips, it is important drivers remember that as the weather warms up, they should keep watch out for bicyclists, especially in residential areas. The most important thing drivers can do to avoid striking a bicyclist is obey the speed limit, normally 35 mph in residential areas or 25 mph in school zones, but be mindful of the speed limits where you live and drive, and stay focused on the road and the possibility of young ones riding or running into your path.
Make sure your children are aware of the following bicycle “rules of the road:”
§ Pedestrians have the right-of-way on sidewalks;
§ When riding in the street, travel in the same direction as vehicle traffic;
§ Children under 15 years of age are required to wear a helmet;
§ A bicyclist in the street has all the rights and responsibilities of any other driver;
§ Bicyclists should know all the hand signals to indicate direction of travel;
§ When coming out of a driveway or crossing a street, bicyclists must make sure there is no other traffic before proceeding. Rules are the same as when crossing any street, “look both ways before entering the street;”
§ Bicyclists must obey highway signs such as stop signs.
§ Remember: many times drivers do not see bicyclists, so bicyclists should use bike flags and bright colored clothing to help drivers see them.
§ Young bicyclists should not bike after dark;
§ Bicyclists should look out for other cars, other bicyclists, pedestrians, skateboarders, animals or any other potential obstacle in their path, and they should also be careful when passing parked cars to make sure a driver is not about to pull out from the space or open a car door.
Bicycling is a great opportunity for children to have fun, but let’s ensure they stay safe as well.
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