Photo: ODOT

Just in time for Oregon’s busy spring and summer travel season, the Oregon Department of Transportation is releasing a newly redesigned Oregon Coast Bicycle Route map alongside a new safety awareness campaign reminding drivers how to safely share the road with people riding bicycles. This is the first major refresh of the map in a decade and a reminder to travelers about a 40-year-old law many people may not know.

“This map invites people on bicycles to experience Oregon’s stunning coastal landscape while providing essential information for a safe and enjoyable trip,” said Ian Davidson, Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Manager. “Paper maps remain timeless for riders planning and enjoying their rides on the coast.”

Get a free copy of the new map

Join us on Thursday, June 11 at 12:30 p.m. at the 55th anniversary celebration event of the "Bike Bill” at the Oregon State Capitol State Park in Salem and pick up a free copy of the new map. The public is invited to attend.
Save on gas, take POINT or Amtrak Cascades to the event. It costs $5 to book your bike on the train, and you can also bring your bike on POINT for free, but space is limited.

The Oregon Coast Bicycle Route is one of the most popular long-distance cycling routes in the United States, attracting local, national and international visitors each year. The new map provides route guidance, tourism information, and important travel resources for cyclists navigating the coast, where cellular and internet service can often be unreliable.

Can’t make it to the event?

People living in Oregon can pre-order a copy of the map by emailing their mailing address to: pedbikepublications@odot.oregon.gov.

May is Bicycle Safety Month

To complement the map and recognize National Bicycle Safety Month, ODOT launched a public awareness campaign focused on educating people driving and bicycling to stay safe on the roads. The main message: People on bicycles may use the full lane. Slow down, be patient and give extra space.

“Generally, most people bicycling stay as far right as safe or practical. But people on bicycles may use the full lane, to avoid obstacles, narrow roads and drop-off shoulders," said Heidi Manlove, Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program Manager. “While driving, be patient and only pass a bicycle when it’s safe.”

ODOT’s safety campaign includes billboard messaging along major travel corridors and popular coastal routes to help educate travelers about safely sharing the road. With more people expected on coastal highways and scenic roads in the coming months, ODOT is encouraging people to travel safely and understand Oregon’s bicycle laws.

How to safely drive around a person riding a bicycle

Be patient and hold back for a safe place to pass that provides plenty of space.
Once it’s clear, move fully into the next lane.
As you pass, keep your speed at 5 miles below the speed limit.
Wait until you see the person bicycling in your rearview mirror before moving back into your lane.
Remember: Oregon law allows drivers to cross a double-yellow line to safely pass a person on a bicycle when it is clear and safe to do so.

Safety tips for people riding bicycles

Use a white front light and red rear light, even during the day.
Wear bright or reflective clothing to help drivers see you.
Ride in the same direction as traffic.
Obey all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
Use hand signals so others can anticipate your moves.
Ride in a straight, predictable line.
Be careful in intersections —slow down, check for turning vehicles.
Wear a properly fitted helmet every ride.
Assume drivers may not see you.
Be ready for sudden movements—especially around driveways, parking lots and bus stops.

Safety tips for people driving in cars

People riding bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers and may occupy a full lane when needed.
Maintain a safe passing distance—give extra space to pass— if possible, move into the adjacent lane to create additional buffer.
Constantly look ahead, check mirrors, and monitor blind spots—especially before turning or changing lanes.
Watch for people riding bicycles at intersections and before opening doors, so you avoid “dooring” incidents.
Use your turn signals well in advance so people riding can anticipate your actions.
Never park or drive in bike lanes and always check them before crossing.
Slow down and yield to people on bicycles, especially when turning—the person traveling straight usually will have the right-of-way.
Be particularly alert at intersections since many serious crashes occur there.
Children are unpredictable—expect sudden moves, especially in residential areas, near schools and driveways.
Avoid honking at people riding bicycles; sudden noises can startle them and cause crashes.

Source: Oregon Department of Transportation