By Staff
Soon the residents of Niles will have a way to increase their exercise, help the environment and save money.
Bicycle racks are being put up in downtown Niles so people can ride to work, or stop to shop.
May is National Bicycle Month and with gas prices soaring above $3 a gallon, they may be the best way to get around.
The benefit of better health is also a plus.
With more people returning to bikes, some for the first time since they were children, there are certain rules to remember to help keep them safe, both for the riders and others driving vehicles.
The League of Michigan Bicyclists wants to:
remind everyone that bicycles are vehicles with the same rights, rules and responsibilities of other road users.
remind motorists to only pass a bicycle when it's safe to do so. Slow down and give bicyclists three feet of passing room.
remind motorists that bicycle riders have the same rights as motorists, so motorists should yield to bicycles like any other vehicle. Never cut off bicyclists.
remind bicyclists that you should obey all traffic laws, stop signs, and traffic lights.
remind bicyclists that laws require bicycles to have lights at night, and common sense requires cyclists to wear helmets and bright clothing.
Ride in the right-most lane that goes in the direction that you are travelling.
Look before you change lanes or signal a turn; indicate your intention, then act. Be visible and predictable at all times.
For further information visit the League of Michigan Bicyclists web site at www.lmb.org.