The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration encourages all road users, including motorists and bicyclists, to respect each other and foster a safer transportation environment. Bicycles on the roadway have the same rights, and responsibilities as motorized vehicles.

Michigan law requires motorists to give bicyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing. Some Michigan municipalities have enacted ordinances requiring motorists to give bicyclists 5 feet of space when passing. These ordinances supersede the state law. In these jurisdictions, motorists are required to increase the amount of space given to bicyclists.

Bicyclists should:

– Ride with traffic and follow the rules of the road.

– Use hand signals when turning or stopping.

– Obey traffic signals, signs, and markings.

– When dark, a white light on the front and rear red reflector are required.

– Ride on the trail, paved shoulder, bike lane, or bike route.

– Be visible: wear appropriate high visibility safety gear, including a helmet.

– Watch for debris that might make you fall or swerve.

– Watch for turning traffic.

– Ride no more than two abreast.

Drivers should:

– Give at least 3-feet when passing bicyclists. (See above for stricter local ordinances)

– Obey traffic signals, signs and markings.

– Yield to bicyclists as you would motorists and do not underestimate their speed. This will help avoid turning in front of a bicyclist traveling on the road or sidewalk, often at an intersection or driveway.

– Avoid distractions.

– Obey the posted speed limit.

– Stay alert and take extra caution at intersections, especially when making turns.

– In parking lots, at stop signs, when backing up, or when parking, search your surroundings for other vehicles, including bicyclists.

– To avoid “dooring” a bicyclist, never open a car door without first checking for passing traffic. One example of checking for traffic is the “Dutch Reach.” This method involves the driver of a vehicle using their right hand to open their door, not their left hand. This naturally puts the driver in position to check both in front and behind for approaching traffic.