Rules of the Road

The rules of the road for bikers and motorists are defined. A Western State Colorado University master’s program student is launching a campaign in Salida to encourage cyclist and drivers to learn the rules of the road.  This work fits into the nationwide program to “share the road.”

Most bikeable roads in Salida are shared roads: Cyclists must ride in the same lanes made for motorzied traffic.  Cyclists are required to stop at stop signs and cross walks.  Motorists are required to give cyclists 3 feet of space.  A driver trying to pass a cyclist in the same lane should wait for oncoming traffic to clear.

Highway 50 was been restriped this summer.  This “road diet” narrowed the driving lanes and added bike lanes on each side of the highway.  The effort is a state-wide effort to promote bike safety.

Salida has also been awarded a “silver” level award as a bike-friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists. Salida has seen an upturn in cycling over the last decade. Our trail system has exploded.  The increase in cycling activity equates to an increase in conflict with motorists.