For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Shoshana Hoose, Communications Coordinator
207-623-4511
shoshana@BikeMaine.org

Gov. Baldacci Holds Signing Ceremony for Bicycle Safety Law

Augusta, Maine - Gov. John Baldacci held a ceremonial signing for L.D. 1808, "An Act to Improve Road Safety and Update Bicycling Laws," on July 24. It will take effect in September.

Signing Ceremony

Flanked by about 15 members of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine (BCM), Baldacci praised the measure for helping to improve safety for both bicyclists and motorists. He predicted that the law will "encourage more people to get out on their bikes."

Governor Baldacci signs bicycle safety law

Baldacci noted some of the major provisions in the new law:

• A requirement that motorists leave at least three feet of space when passing cyclists.
• Giving motorists the right to cross the centerline in no passing zones in order to pass bicyclists, when safe to do so.
• Clarification of the requirement that cyclists ride to the right. The law recognizes numerous situations when bicyclists need to move from the right portion of the roadway such as avoiding obstacles, proceeding straight near right-turn lanes or preparing to turn left.
• Waiving liability for businesses with drive-up windows that serve cyclists.

Jeff Miller talks to the press

The new law "just makes sense," said Baldacci.

Wearing a red BCM bicycle pin, Baldacci lauded the coalition's work to promote bicycling in Maine. "I really appreciate your leadership," he said.

BCM President Jane Self presented the governor with a pair of Lobster Ride red biking socks. Jeffrey Miller, BCM's executive director, cited the work of Sen. Dennis Damon (D-Trenton), Rep. Richard Cleary (D-Houlton) and several other legislators in passage of the law.

Governor Baldacci with Jenny Wilbraham

Baldacci gave the pen from the signing ceremony to Jenny Wilbraham, 6, of Bath who attended the ceremony with her mother. Jenny rides her bike to school regularly, and she also has ridden with her parents at the Maine Bike Rally, Maine Lobster Ride and other BCM events.

Advocating bicycling safety, education and access in Maine since 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine is working to make Maine accessible and safe for all residents and visitors so they may comfortably and responsibly bicycle. The BCM also promotes bicycling for transportation, health, recreation and fun to enhance our communities, environment and economy.

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