Monthly crime prevention tip: Share the Road.

By Capt. Shawn McCarty, Milton Police Department

On any given day with good weather you can find a large portion of the city's population outside enjoying nature. One of the most visible events is bike riding.

Many times the interaction of bicycle and motorist creates annoying reactions from one to the other. The motoring public is annoyed by the unnecessary delay that is created by the cyclist, while the cyclist becomes irate of how the motoring public is oblivious to his or her presence or safety. To help mitigate some of these problems, the Milton police would like to take this opportunity to talk about changes to state law and reminders to the both the motoring public and cyclists.

For motorists: On July 1, 2011 Gov. Nathan Deal signed the "Better Bicycling Bill" which added a provision that motorists shall yield to a person operating a bicycle in a bicycle lane. Additionally, when feasible, the operator of a motor vehicle, when overtaking and passing a bicycle that is proceeding in the same direction on the roadway, by law shall leave a safe distance (no less than 3 feet) between the vehicle and the bicycle and shall maintain that distance until safely past the overtaken bicycle.

Be patient and wait till it is safe to pass. Do not honk your horn or harass a cyclist in any way.

For cyclists: All traffic laws apply to cyclists. Make sure you obey them and always signal all turns. Ride as close to the right side of the road as possible, never more than two abreast. Always wear a helmet, and remember any cyclist under 16 is required to wear a helmet when riding on any public street or sidewalk.

The Milton Police Department wants everyone to enjoy our city and all it has to offer. As always, we are here to assist and will provide updates as needed on topics that affect the safety and security of our residents and visitors.

Click here for information on becoming a part of the MPACT program.