vSAFETY
continued from page 5
many stories of unfortunate injuries and deaths of bicyclists.
“The car always wins in these cases and it doesn’t matter who is
right or wrong.” Because of this Matt would like to see bicyclists
and drivers share the public roadways in South Dakota and
Nebraska. “I would like to help increase awareness of bicyclists
on the roadways, and make drivers of automobiles more aware
of their rights. South Dakota and Nebraska roadways should
have no injuries/fatalities if both drivers and cyclists respect
each other and follow the rules.” One law that Matt told me about
just passed in 2015 and aims to further reduce the number of
accidents between motorists and cyclists. Motorists across the
state must now provide cyclists with a 3 foot “cushion” of space
when passing at speed limits of 35 mph, and a 6 foot cushion at
speed limits greater than 35 mph. Matt urges proper bike safety
protocols and to know the laws as both a bicyclist and a motorist.
“I would like to see the City/County of Yankton, and State of
South Dakota and Nebraska continue to add more cycling trails,
routes, and safety awareness opportunities so that more people
of all ages can enjoy the exercise and transportation benefits of
cycling.”
With long, beautiful summer nights just around the corner, here
are some helpful tips to make sure you and your loved ones are
practicing the proper protocols for bike safety. Speaking from
experience, it’s better to look “lame” with the bike helmet than to
be in a bike accident without one.
• Bicycles are vehicles with the same rights, rules and
responsibilities as other road users; always share the road.
• On every ride, wear a helmet that meets federal safety
standards issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
To determine the correct helmet size, measure the rider’s head
with a tape measure.
• Adjust the helmet pads and straps so the fit is snug and level.
The helmet should be worn 1-2 finger widths above the head,
not tilted back on the crown or pulled low over the forehead.
• If a helmet has been dropped hard or been in a crash,
replace it.
• Make sure the bicycle is the right size. When sitting on the
seat with hands on the handlebar, the rider should be able
to place the ball of each foot on the ground.
• Check for traffic and be aware of the traffic around you.
Over 70 percent of car-bicycle crashes occur at driveways or
other intersections. Before riding into traffic: stop, look left,
right, left again, and over your shoulder.
• Ride single file in the same direction as other traffic and
always use hand signals.
• Wear bright clothes to be visible and avoid biking at night.
• Adults and parents should be good role models and
wear helmets too.
vBy Brandi Bue
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14vHERVOICEvMAY/JUNE 2017
Anastasia Searcy, DO
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