May Is Bike Month: Important Tips For Safe Roads In Minnesota

Welcome to the month of May. A month where we should start being able to trust the weather for more consistent warmer temperatures.  

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More daylight, more flowers and trees blooming and more time outside. One of the more popular ways to enjoy the weather in Central Minnesota is riding bikes.  

And it makes sense that we’re seeing more and more folks peddling around the area because May is National Bike Month. The Minnesota Department of Transportation took to their “X” or Twitter account yesterday to remind motorists to expect to see more folks on bicycles moving forward.  

They even offered reminders to both those in vehicles and those who will be riding bikes that should keep everyone safe this spring and summer. 

For Motorists

Here are the things you should keep in mind, and the first tip is to be patient with bike riders. When it comes time to pass them, do so only when you can pass safely and make sure you allow three feet clearance between your vehicle and the rider. 

Patience is especially important when you encounter younger bike riders. MnDOT also reminds you about checking your mirrors and blind spots when the time comes to go around the cyclist. 

Another useful tip when you go to pass a cyclist, don’t speed around them just to make a turn in front of them. It is easy for a motorist to misjudge how fast a cyclist is actually traveling.  

Don’t honk behind a cyclist unless it is absolutely necessary. They may not hear you to begin with and the horn could cause them to crash which could lead to a bigger accident. 

And most importantly stay alert.  

For Bike Riders

First, make sure you are riding in the direction of traffic. It is really important that you obey all traffic laws for cyclists and motorists alike.  

It is very important that you wear bright colors, headlights and taillights on the bike and use the proper protective riding helmet. Bike riders should stay on the roads or proper trails, don’t ride on the sidewalk. This puts you and others at unnecessary risk.  

Riders should always signal and indicate to motorists which way they intend to go. And if you need to pass a motorist, only do that from the left.  

When encountering commercial vehicles, especially those that are much bigger than the other vehicles on the road, use extreme caution.  

We’re expecting a nice spring this year, and people will be flocking to get exercise around while enjoying being outside. Use these tips and make it a safe time for all.