As of today Georgia has joined 17 other States in enacting a '3 feet to pass' law (House Bill 101, the “Better Bicycling Bill,” ) with regard to passing cyclists. The bill makes several other improvements to bicycling laws. The law now clarifies that bicycle lanes must be built according to nationally recognized minimum safety standards and that cyclists have the right of way while travelling in bicycle lanes. This is a big move for our State.
Ironically, I did my first commute to work by bike this morning. For a long time I did not think this was possible, but I found a route that works and is only 13 or so miles. It went great and I hope to be able to commute this way a couple of times a week. Most people were very courteous and moved over into the left lane to pass me (maybe they all know about the new law!). Dave has been biking a lot through group rides a couple of days a week, but has no shower in his office so commuting is not an option for him. This is sad as he only works 9 miles from our house. I suggested he use the public spray fountain in City Market by his office - he did not think this was very funny. Can't you picture him in here with all the kids?
Anyways, yay Georgia for thinking ahead. The roads are still not hospitable to bikers (who ever filled the entire shoulder with rumble strips or 'sleeper lines' clearly was not thinking about bikers) but there is a big master plan to make it better. If I can decrease the amount of times I have to get into my car during the week I will be a happy woman. Happy 3 feet to pass day!
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