"Share the Road, it's the Law"  is an important cycling slogan, but what does it really mean for cyclists and motorists?   How do they share the road safely and effectively?  Well, here are some practical tips, for cyclists and motorists, from the League of American Bicyclists, a group that has been promoting cycling and safety for more than a century:

Lessons for Cyclist

On the Road

• The same laws that apply to motorists apply to cyclists
• Obey all traffic control devices and police officers
• Use hand signals to indicate stops and turns

Always Wear a Properly Fitting Helmet

• Wear a helmet, no matter how short the trip

Ride on the Right

• Always ride in the same direction as traffic
• Use the furthest right lane that is safe and heads to your destination
• Slower moving cyclists and motorists stay to the right

Ride Predictably

• Ride in a straight line
• Don't swerve in the road or between parked cars
• Check for traffic before entering street or intersection
• Anticipate hazards and adjust your position accordingly

Be Visible

• Wear brightly colored clothing that provides contrast
• Use a white front light at night
• Use a red rear light at night
• Use a reflector or reflective tape or clothing anytime
• Announce yourself by making eye contact with motorists

Sharing the Road: Lessons for Motorists

Drive Cautiously

• Reduce speed when encountering cyclists
• Don't tailgate, especially in bad weather
• Recognize hazards cyclists may face and give them space

 Yield to Cyclists

• Bicycles are considered vehicles, under the law, not toys
• Cyclists should be given the appropriate right of way
• Allow extra time for cyclists to traverse intersections

Be Considerate

• Scan for cyclists in traffic and at intersections
• Do not blast your horn in close proximity to cyclists
• Look for cyclists when opening doors

Pass with Care

• When passing, leave three feet between you and a cyclist
• Wait for safe road and traffic conditions before you pass
• Check over your shoulder before moving back

Watch for Children

• Children on bicycles are often unpredictable
• Expect the unexpected and slow down
• Don't expect children to know traffic laws
• Because of their size children can be harder to see

For more information, go here.