Drivers, cyclists responsible for each others’ safety Published June 22, 2016 By Samantha Schaffer 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- When the base held its annual kick off to summer safety fest in early June, it promoted numerous ways to stay safe including bicycling safety. During the event, people participated in a bicycle ride around the base, which is something that many people do on a daily basis for recreation and fitness. However, care must still be taken by both drivers and riders to ensure each others’ safety. “With more people of all age levels and experience out and about on bicycles, it's important to stay safe out there,” said Staff Sgt. Travis McManus, 375th Air Mobility Wing occupational safety craftsman. No one could agree more than Paul Niesen, who has been riding his bike to work for around nine years at Scott AFB and previously for five years while he lived in Germany. He said he enjoys this method of transportation because it’s cheap, good for the environment and helps him stay active. “It’s you, the environment and the bike; you can soak in what you want,” said Niesen, who often rides around the base’s 6.5 mile perimeter. But, it can also be risky when trying to navigate the same road as drivers. Niesen said he feels that some motorists are lacking awareness of bike safety rules, and that they should start keeping an eye out for bicyclists. “I don’t think they always see us as a vehicle; we are,” Niesen said. “In turn, bicyclists must stay vigilant, in order to be safe on the road.” According to bicycle safety regulations for the base, all cyclists must adhere to the same regulations motorists are required to follow. On-base cycling requires approved helmets, as well as a highly visible outer garment during the day, and a reflective vest at night. Also, the bicycle must have a headlight and back reflector when riding in the dark. By Illinois state law, motorists must give at least three feet of clearance when passing or riding near a bike. According to the 2012 National Survey on Bicyclist and Pedestrian Attitudes and Behaviors, nearly a third of all bike-related injuries are caused when a vehicle strikes a bicyclist. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 726 people lost their lives from bicycle crashes in 2014. “Riding the base perimeter is a great lunch-time workout, but it’s also a busy time for many motorists, so let’s pay attention and be courteous to each other so we can enjoy sharing the same road,” said Niesen.