Ventura, Calif. — With over 60 miles of bicycle lanes, 35 miles of bike routes and paths, and over 400 lockers and racks, the City of Ventura is rated as a bicycle friendly community from the League of American Bicyclists. During Bicycle Safety Month, the Ventura Police Department is encouraging those out walking, driving, or riding their bikes to look out for one another and know the rules of the road.
“We want our community to understand that bicyclists and drivers should be sharing the road and following all traffic laws intended to help everyone get where they need to go safely,” said Sergeant Michael Brown. “Sharing is caring, and that responsibility falls on both drivers and cyclists.”
During the month of May, the City of Ventura recommends enjoying a self-guided bike tour, featuring more than two dozen pieces of public art throughout Ventura. Download a Bicycle Route Guide for turn-by-turn directions at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/PublicArt
Additionally, the City of Ventura’s bicycle education partner, BikeVentura, offers various bicycle education classes throughout the year. Learn more at www.bikeventura.org/events
The Ventura Police Department also offers the following tips to help keep you and your family safe on two wheels:
- Always wear a helmet and never ride impaired.
- Wear brightly colored clothing and have bike lights handy. This includes a front white light and a rear red flashing light or reflectors.
- Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
- Travel in the same direction as traffic.
- When riding in the street, a bicyclist is considered a vehicle with all the rights and responsibilities of motorized traffic.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To learn more about the Office of Traffic Safety grant and VPD’s educational efforts, contact Emily Graves, Community Outreach Specialist for the Ventura Police Department, at [email protected].
