DOVER (May 1, 2013) – At the Walkable, Bikeable Summit today, Governor Jack Markell was joined by Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) Secretary Shailen Bhatt, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Collin O’Mara and bike advocacy groups to launch the ‘See it Both Ways’ safety campaign designed to educate motorists and bicyclists to look out for each other and share the road. 
The campaign is a component of Governor Markell’s First State Trails and Pathways Initiative that creates a world-class statewide network of new and enhanced trails and pathways for residents and visitors to enjoy walking, biking, and active living.
“The ‘See it Both Ways’ awareness campaign makes safety a priority for cyclists and motorists,” said Governor Markell. “As we expand our statewide network of trails and pathways, we want to be sure those on wheels and behind the wheel are both looking out for one another. Safe trails and pathways will make Delaware one of the most walkable and bikeable states in America.”
The campaign’s key focus is on increasing awareness between motorists and bicyclists to see the road from the other’s point of view. The ‘See it Both Ways’ logo and slogan, ‘Safety Begins with Sharing,’ are being displayed on DART buses traveling throughout the state. Reflectors that can be attached to a bicyclist or pedestrian’s clothing to increase visibility were distributed at today’s Summit.
“‘See It Both Ways’ focuses on respecting the rights and safety of others. This Campaign asks motorists to put themselves in the place of bicyclists in order to better understand how their driving impacts others. In turn, the program asks bicyclists to view safety from the perspective of drivers,” said Secretary Bhatt. “Traveling on roads and pathways requires care and courtesy – whether you are driving a car on the road or riding a bicycle on a roadway or pathway.”
“Safety and awareness go hand-in-hand with Delaware being more walkable and bikeable,” said Secretary O’Mara. “This campaign educates motorists and bicyclists to “See it Both Ways” and promotes safety on our roadways.”
Here are just a few of the key points for bicyclists and motorists to remember:
- In Delaware, a bicycle is considered a “vehicle” (like cars, trucks and motorcycles). All bicycle riders must obey the same laws as drivers of other vehicles.
- When a road is too narrow for cars and bikes to ride safely side by side, cyclists should use the travel lane, which means riding in or near the center of the lane.
- Motorists must maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. It’s the law.
- Motorists should be alert at all times – avoiding distractions such as text messaging and speaking on the cell phone.
Bicycling is on the rise in Delaware. People are biking for exercise or to reduce commuting costs. It’s time to “See It Both Ways” — for everyone’s safety.
For more information on the First State Trails and Pathways program, please visit www.trails.delaware.gov.
Contact: Dawn Hopkins, DelDOT, 302-760-2727
Melanie Rapp, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902