(July 17, 2014) — If you’re headed to Artscape this weekend, be sure to stop by the “We’re on This Road Together, Expect and Respect” booth on Mount Royal Ave., just west of Maryland Ave.  There the State Highway Administration (SHA) interactive display reminds drivers and bicyclists that sharing the road is a work of art.

 

 

Attendees can take home a Share the Road memento by literally pedaling a bicycle to create a work of spin art – the wheels will spin paint onto blank paper during a colorful, stationary ride. Participants will receive helpful driving and bicycling safety information and provide their opinions in a survey about perceptions, attitudes and behaviors regarding bicycling and driving on Maryland roadways.

“Maryland State Highway Administration’s number one priority is safety.  Artscape provides the perfect opportunity to reach drivers and bicyclists with the crucial message: we are all on this road together, expect and respect,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters.  “Ultimately our goal is that everyone, no matter what their mode of travel, reaches their destination safely.”

SHA is dedicated to providing safe highways for all travelers through its “Complete Streets” program and promoting the message that Maryland roads are open to everyone: cyclists, riders, trucks, vehicles and pedestrians. The goal of the Share the Road bicycle safety education campaign is to remind both drivers and cyclists of their responsibilities to partner in safety.  The campaign promotes sharing the road through social media, marketing, grass roots outreach and public events.

When passing bicyclists, drivers should keep in mind that Maryland law requires you give three feet of space while passing.  On the other hand, cyclists are reminded that they are required to adhere to the same rules and regulations as drivers of vehicles. To prevent injury in case of a collision, bicyclists should wear protective gear and helmets.

For more information on bike safety and access, click here.