Safer Driving and Increased Awareness Needed as New School Year Begins

As we enter the school year with the tragic news of the death of Rochester resident Margaret Miland, the Bicycle Alliance of MInnesota would like to remind all roadway users, whether they’re walking, bicycling, or driving a motor vehicle, to obey the rules of the road and Minnesota traffic law. Margaret was struck by a motor vehicle in the early morning hours on Tuesday and lost her life due to injuries from the crash.

“I was sad to hear the news that Margaret passed away from the injuries she sustained in the car bike crash at the intersection of 19th St. and High Valley Drive on Tuesday. I want to urge drivers to always be extra cautious and to watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially at intersections,” said Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede.

Motorists especially must increase their awareness of vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and bicyclists. There will be increased pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle traffic around schools as students statewide go back to school. Additionally, it is a challenging time of year for all roadway users because of the increased traffic as well as low light in the morning and evening.

Motorists must look for children and adults at intersections, crosswalks, and along roads. It’s the law to stop for pedestrians within the crosswalk. It’s also the law to give a three-foot clearance and to yield to bicyclists before making a turn. Motorists should also focus on driving and avoid distractions, such as eating or drinking and using cell phones, while operating their vehicles. The recently passed “Vulnerable User Law” increases the penalty statewide for causing a fatality or great bodily harm to another person while committing another serious driving offense.

Pedestrians should use crosswalks and sidewalks when available, and look left, right, and left again before crossing the street. When no sidewalks are available, they should walk on the left side of the road against the direction of traffic.

“Caution and increased awareness are especially important as children return to school and the daylight hours become shorter. I also urge pedestrians and bicyclists to wear light and bright clothing and for bicyclists to always use lights when it is dark,” said Dorian Grilley, Executive Director of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota.

Bicyclists should ride predictably so motorists know what their intentions are. This means using hand signals, riding in a straight line, and obeying traffic signals. Bicyclists are subject to the same laws as motor vehicles. They should wear helmets and wear bright colors and reflective gear to increase their visibility.