“Bicyclists have a right to be on the road.” This comes from Josh DeBruyn during a recent interview on Michigan public radio, where the bike and pedestrian coordinator for Michigan Department of Transportation explained the rise in bike lanes. He says that according to state and national laws, bikes are as much a part of the road as motor vehicles.
Recent additions to the number of bike lanes in numerous cities across the state, including Detroit and Grand Rapids, have drivers of motor vehicles anxious and angry about bicyclists. It is a two-way road; while bicyclists must follow the same road laws that a car must follow, cars have to allow bicyclists the proper space and attention. DeBruyn says that the two biggest mistakes cars make are not giving enough space when passing a bike and cutting in front of bicyclists.
The data is premature on whether or not bike lanes decrease accidents. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that both motorists and bicyclists must follow road laws no matter the circumstance, it will reduce accidents and boost vehicle cooperation.