Safety First: 5 Changes to Improve Bicycle Lanes
When considering current road safety, cyclists face a higher risk of fatal crashes and road related injuries than motorists. That is why in recent years there has been a focus on making roads more compatible with cyclists. Below you will learn about bicycle lane improvements that can increase the safety and comfort of cyclists. If you're already familiar with ways to make bicycle lane improvements, you can search 'bike' on CADdetails.com to get started on your project.
Fix Drainage Grates
image © Visitor7
Drainage grates along roads and bike paths are essential to prevent flooding. However, as seen in the picture above, certain storm drains can be hazardous for cyclists. That is why it is essential to consider grates that are smaller, installed horizontally instead of vertically, have less slots and are more suitable for cyclists.
Widen Outside Through Lanes
image © unsplash
While wide lanes are not required for cyclists, but creating them gives cyclists and automobiles the ability to pass other cyclists safely. When choosing wider lanes it is also important to make it visually distinctive to prevent motorists from entering the lane.
Create a Traffic Calming Neighbourhood
image © Steve Parker via Flickr
Cyclists face multiple dangers when biking alongside motorists on busy roads. That is why it is important to create a traffic calming neighbourhood that reduces the speed of motorists and allows cyclists a safer way to commute. You can achieve a traffic calmed neighbourhood by created speed bumps for cars, median barriers, roundabouts, and visually textured surfaces of the bicycle lane.
Bike Friendly Signals at Intersections
image © heb
A city that chooses to install good cycling infrastructure will benefit not only the cyclist but also fellow motorists. Including bike friendly signals, buffer lines, and distinctive lanes at intersections can help to increase the flow of traffic, the safety of cyclists, and the commute for both cyclists and motorists.
Bicycle Shelters
image © Veledome Shelters
In addition to having safe pathways, when cyclists are considering a park to visit they want to ensure a safe space where they can dismount and leave their bike. Having bicycle shelters will provide cyclists with the opportunity to dismount and encourages cycling in the community. If you're considering adding a shelter to your town, consider viewing this project found here for inspiration.
Cover Photo © unsplash
