Keep Bikes in Mind to Be Safe This Summer

As the weather gets warmer, motorists need to be aware of cyclists and share the road. AAA, in partnership with the League of American Bicyclists, is raising awareness of road safety during May, which is National Bike Month. The organizations have published a number of safety videos for drivers and cyclists on ShareTheRoad.AAA.com.

"This spring, warm weather is enticing more bicyclists to the roadways," said Rhonda Shah, AAA's traffic safety project manager. "And sadly, in 2010, 628 bicyclists were killed in traffic crashes and an additional 52,000 were injured."

AAA offered a few tips for motorists to keep in mind as they hit the roads this spring and summer. Most importantly, drivers need to remember to share the road and pay attention to bicycles. Cyclists who ride in the road are subjected to the same rules and regulations as those behind the wheel of a car and deserve the same respect. Check your mirrors and your blind spots for cyclists before you change lanes, make turns or open your doors.

It is also important for drivers to resist the urge to honk their horn at cyclists. While this action is necessary to get the attention of other drivers in emergency situations, a horn is much louder to someone on a bike than it is to another driver. The sudden sound can startle a biker and cause them to swerve or even fall.

Some cars are equipped with blind spot detection and other warning systems that can help drivers stay safe around cyclists. Those looking for used cars in New Jersey may find vehicles with these and other helpful safety features at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The automaker has a variety of makes and models, including many newer autos with the latest amenities.