For Immediate Release
| PR #: | 1500085 |
| Date Issued: | Jul 23, 2015 - 7:55am |
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Washoe County Sheriff's Office reminds cyclists and motorists to 'share the road' |
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| CONTACT: | Deputy Jeff McCaskill Washoe County Sheriff's Office Office 775-328-6370 Cell 775-771-8252 |
More people commuting and recreating by bicycle has led to increased activity on our highway and traffic bicycle lanes. This increase has led to a number of major injury incidents involving bicycles in the last several years. So far this year, there have been 7 bicycle related fatalities in the state of Nevada.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office has received questions from the public regarding rules of the road as they pertain to vehicles and bicycles. The Sheriff's Office thought this would be a good opportunity to remind all users of public roads to be aware of others and to obey all traffic regulations.
The following tips for cyclists will make for a safer and more enjoyable ride:
- Cyclists must obey all laws pertaining to driving, including all signs and signals, as if they were operating a motor vehicle. (per NRS 484B.763)
- Always ride on the right and as far to the right side of the roadway as possible. While cyclists may use the travel lane, it is encouraged that they use a designated bicycle lane or to ride single file in traffic as a courtesy to other roadway users.
- Cyclists may not ride more than two abreast except on parts of roadway set aside for cyclists (bike lanes, cycletracs, buffered bike lanes, shared bike/bus lanes, etc.) (NRS 4848.777)
In the same manner, drivers in motor vehicles should remember to be aware of both motorcycles and cyclists. Operators of motor vehicles should keep in mind that cyclists have the same rights as other drivers in Nevada. In addition, drivers of vehicles should keep these safety tips in mind:
- When passing a cyclist you MUST move into an adjacent lane to the left, when possible. If changing lanes is not possible, you must allow at least 3 feet of clearance between your car and the bicycle. (per NRS 484B.270)
- At intersections, yield to cyclists as you would pedestrians or other vehicles
- Do not drive or park in designated bicycle lanes or paths unless needed for an emergency.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office will be on the lookout for any violations with cyclists or motorists and will be taking appropriate enforcement action.
Additionally, the Sheriff's Office has partnered with the Nevada Highway Patrol and Nevada Department of Transportation Bicycle and Pedestrian Section's new Bicycle Safety education and enforcement initiative; a public awareness effort designed to reinforce Nevada Department of Transportation and Department of Public Safety's Zero Fatalities campaign to eliminate roadway fatalities and serious injuries. For more information and FAQ's regarding bicycle safety and Nevada's laws concerning cycling go to: http://bit.ly/1Mlbyqn or bicyclenevada.com.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to the safety of the community and hopes that these reminders will keep all that use the public roads safe while commuting and exploring Washoe County.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.
Attached audio files...