For Immediate Release

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

Maine Legislature Passes Bicycle Safety Bill

Augusta, Maine - The Maine Legislature today gave final approval to a comprehensive bicycle safety bill that requires motorists to give cyclists three feet of clearance when passing and makes several other changes to existing law.

Sponsored by Sen. Dennis Damon (D-Trenton), L.D. 1808 clarifies that motorists may cross the centerline in no passing zones in order to pass bicyclists when safe to do so. The legislation also will strengthen Maine's youth bicycle helmet law by creating a $25 fine for those 15 and under who fail to wear a helmet. Youth can be fined after the second or subsequent offense, but the fine can be waived by showing proof that a helmet has been purchased.

"This law will go a long way toward making Maine safer for bicyclists," said Jeffrey Miller, executive director of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. "It comes at an opportune time as Maine enters bicycle tourism season and high gas prices convince more commuters to try bicycling. Bicyclists throughout Maine appreciate the Transportation Committee's hard work on this important measure and the Maine Legislature's support."

L.D. 1808, titled "An Act to Improve Road Safety and Update Bicycling Laws," makes Maine the 10th state to require that motorists give a three-foot, side-by-side clearance when passing bicyclists. Other provisions will:

• Clarify the rule that requires cyclists to ride to the right. The bill 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.

• Waive liability for businesses with drive-up windows that serve cyclists. This provision should make it easier for Mainers to do errands such as going to the bank or getting food by bicycle.

• Reassign "toy vehicles" to a new section of law. Bicycles are vehicles and have the same rights, duties and responsibilities as other vehicles on the road.

The House removed a provision in the bill that would have made it illegal to operate a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol. Another amendment that would have significantly weakened the three-foot rule and the helmet enforcement provisions was soundly rejected.

Gov. John Baldacci is expected to sign the bike safety bill.

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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