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Bikers, runners, drivers: How to stay safe while sharing the road in Michigan

Posted at 6:33 AM, May 09, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-09 06:48:49-04

(WXYZ) — As the weather warms up, we're seeing more bikers, runners and drivers share the road, but it's also a time of year we traditionally see a spike in accidents.

More bike lanes are popping up throughout Michigan, reminding drivers that the roads don't belong just to cars.

The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, or SEMCOG, is promoting safe driving through a series of new commercials. They are reminding drivers that by law, in order to pass a bicyclist, you need to give them 3 feet.

They're also reminding bikers about riding in the dark – flashing lights and reflectors are a must.

Since bike lanes are becoming more common, it's now the time to remember to pay attention to more bicyclists.

“It’s a reminder to pay attention and look for other vehicles or cyclists before you turn," said Jenya Abramovich of SEMCOG.

She says it's a shared responsibility. It's why SEMCOG is pushing its "Walk. Bike. Drive. Safe" campaign. Everyone has a role in keeping our "normal" routines safe.

“Drivers definitely have a big role — they need to watch out for people walking or biking on our roads, but at the same time if you’re biking or walking — you need to make sure that you’re acting safely too and not putting yourself into danger.”