Fort Wayne, Ind. – Thursday, May 13, 2010 — Officials today from Parkview Hospital’s Trauma Center, the City of Fort Wayne and the Ronald G. Repka Foundation announced a new partnership aimed at raising awareness about motorist and cycling safety.
A dozen billboards across Fort Wayne feature a “Pass With Care” message. The new billboards have been in place for a few weeks. The billboards will appear on a consistent basis over the next several months.
“Parkview is pleased to be part of a program that helps motorists and cyclists learn the necessary skills to be as safe as possible,” said Lisa Hollister, program manager, Parkview Trauma Center. “We appreciate the efforts of the Share the Road campaign and the Bike Fort Wayne Task Force. Their commitment to service complements Parkview’s mission to improve the health of the communities we serve.”
”The Ron Repka Foundation is overwhelmed by the partnership with the City of Ft Wayne and Parkview's Trauma Center in the effort to educate drivers and create a safer community for cyclists,” said Sharon Repka, Ronald G. Repka Foundation. “We hope that these billboards will be a reminder to motorists to continue to Share the Road and truly pass bicycles with care. We miss Ron desperately and hope to avoid another senseless tragedy.”
“Fort Wayne is a city on the move,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “With our forward-thinking Bike Fort Wayne plan, City investments in new infrastructure and great partners like Parkview Hospital and the Ronald G. Repka Foundation, we’re making our All-America City a bicycle-friendly one. And we’re also making our community more attractive to new investments, jobs and economic growth. Parkview’s 'Share the Road' campaign is the perfect reminder to drivers, walkers and bicyclists that our streets are meant for everyone. So let’s get moving, but let’s play it safe.”
Motorist Safety Tips
*Stay at least three feet from bicycles
*When turning across traffic, look carefully for cyclists
*Turn on your lights at dusk to help cyclists and other motorists see you
*When passing a bicycle, hug the center line and pass at 15 mph or less. If no vehicles are approaching from the other direction, cross the center line slightly to allow the cyclist more room.
*When parking along a street, check for cyclists before opening the car door
Cycling Safety Tips
*Wear a bike helmet at all times
*Don’t text and ride
*Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals
*Keep brakes, lights, reflectors, horn or bell, and all safety devices in good working condition
*Learn and use hand signals for turns and stops
*Keep both hands on the handle bars, except to signal a turn or stop
*Avoid riding after dark. If you must ride after dark, use a headlight and reflectors, and wear light-color clothing
*Never hold on to a truck, car or other moving vehicles