To the Editor:

I have been out cycling about a dozen times so far this spring, and I have been put in harm’s way several times already.

The biggest issues are cars passing me while I’m biking up a hill. Neither one of us can see if a car is coming up on the other side. It will take me only seconds to get over the hill, but a lot of drivers insist on passing. There is no way they can see if a car is heading up on the other side. If they encounter a car, they will most likely swerve into me or have a head on collision.

Here are some tips/suggestions for drivers and cyclists. We live in a beautiful area, in minutes we can be out in the countryside. Let’s all play it safe out there. Here are some tips for cyclist and motorist safety:

· Cyclist: If you are driving on the road, follow the same rules of the road as cars.

· Driver: Cyclists are allowed to be on the road in traffic. This happens a lot in town at intersections; a cyclist will be in a lane waiting for a traffic light to make a turn. After the turn a cyclist should move over to the right of the lane.

· Cyclist: Try to wear clothing that is highly visible.

· Driver: A lot of cyclists driving on the road can get up to a significant speed, often between 15 and 20 mph and even up to 40 mph on a downhill. Keep this in mind if you plan to make a right turn just ahead of them, they might not be able to stop in time if you cut it too close.

· Cyclist: Do not weave while driving on the shoulder, maintain a straight line as much as possible, this is more predictable.

· Driver: If a cyclist is off the shoulder, in your lane, it’s probably for a good reason; there could be debris on the road, or a pothole, etc...there could be a dog ahead, it is safer to be in the road during that portion of the road, instead of on remaining on the shoulder and suddenly weave out.

· Cyclist: If you are riding in a group, be extra careful out there.

· Driver: If a cyclist is on a narrow shoulder and it’s going to be tight to drive by the cyclist, and passing or moving over is not an option, consider slowing down a little, it makes a big difference to the cyclist.

Lorraine Harper

Potsdam