Numerous factors play a role in ensuring our safety and the safety of others while on the road. By staying alert and learning how to navigate the roads safely alongside others, you increase your chances of steering clear of dangerous circumstances.
BICYCLISTS
Bike riding goes beyond just a pastime, as for some, it serves as their primary means of transportation. While cyclists are generally not allowed on freeways and interstate highways, they are permitted on all types of roads, big or small, in accordance with state and local laws. To ensure cyclist safety:
● Show consideration — Bicyclists typically have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles.
● Be courteous — Allow ample space and give cyclists room to maneuver.
● Practice patience — Respect their space and overtake carefully.
● Stay vigilant — Extend your arm when opening a car door to ensure cyclist safety.
WORK ZONES
Highway work zones can pose challenges to drivers. Practice courteous and cautious navigation. Here are several factors to keep in mind while driving in work zones:
● Workers and construction activities might extend into driving lanes.
● Many states enforce move-over laws for emergency and hazard vehicles; drivers must either move over or reduce speed to provide them with adequate space. Hazards could exist even when no construction is ongoing; watch out for significant edge drop-offs, uneven pavement, sharp turns and outdated pavement markings.
● Construction vehicles will enter and exit work zones at slow speeds and from unexpected locations.
BLIND SPOTS IN LARGE VEHICLES
Areas around a truck that are difficult for the driver to see are known as blind spots, and they can increase the risk of collisions with other vehicles.
● When driving behind a tractor-trailer, maintain a distance that allows you to see both outside mirrors. If you can’t see both mirrors, the driver can’t see you.
● When you pass a larger vehicle, wait until you can see its front tires on the pavement in your inside rearview mirror before merging back in.
● Be aware that larger vehicles require more space to turn. If a vehicle signals a right turn, remain behind it, clear of the curb, until the turn is finished.
● Remember, larger and faster vehicles take longer to come to a stop.
MOTORCYCLISTS
To prevent motorcycle collisions, drivers should:
● Drive defensively.
● Cooperate with motorcyclists.
● Use courtesy and obey the law.
● Apply the “what-if” strategy.
● Maintain a safe following distance.
By driving safely and defensively, drivers can reduce traffic collisions and violations.
SCHOOL BUSES
When you see a school bus, that means children may be nearby. When approaching a school bus keep these actions in mind:
● Reduce speed.
● Be prepared for children.
● Cover the brake.
● Note that amber lights mean the bus is about to stop.
● Stop for red lights and extended stop arm. Do not pass a school bus with flashing red lights or stop arm. Check state laws for specific regulations on divided roadways.
Safety Engagement: Test your knowledge with this crossword puzzle.
Contact Risk Management and Safety for questions about this or other safety-related topics: 574-631-5037 or riskman@nd.edu.
Originally published by at ndworks.nd.edu on June 17, 2024.