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Current laws for motorists and cyclists are outdated and contradictory when it comes to <br />sharing the road safely. Impeding traffic is the biggest issue -and motorist law is insufficient. <br />Other issues include running stop signs, failing to signal, stopping in the middle of the road, and <br />failing to stop for emergency vehicles. These actions carry heavy penalties for motorists - but there <br />are no consequences for cyclists. New laws may be needed governing licensing, tags, insurance, and <br />allowing children on dangerous secondary roads. We are pursing these topics with the NC <br />legislature through HB 232 or an alternative - and welcome OUTBoard's input and support. <br />The greatest irritant for motorists is pelotons - large groups of cyclists who span the entire width <br />of the lane, prohibiting safe passage by cars. There is a perception of entitlement in these large <br />groups and a lack of road etiquette that includes disregard of laws and other road users. These <br />behaviors create unsafe conditions and undermine the "culture of sharing" that most road users <br />would like to see. <br />Our coalition has started working with Highway Patrol to set up directed safety patrols - where <br />citations will be issued to motorists and cyclists who violate current laws. For the long term, state <br />laws need an update, which is the subject of HB 232. <br />The county's maps are outdated and encourage cyclists to use high traffic roads. One area <br />where OUTBoard can immediately help is updating the county bicycling maps in a way that <br />encourages cyclists to use roads with less traffic. This in itself is a major initiative that can greatly <br />improve the culture of cooperation in Orange County. <br />Education is needed if it's simple and focused specifically on teaching motorists and cyclists how <br />to improve rural road safety. General cyclist safety messages maybe perceived as "glossing over <br />important issues, and could inadvertently inflame motorists and cyclists further. <br />Orange County's rural roads serve a community of people going to work, getting their kids to school, <br />and taking care of business. We believe most cyclists and motorists are committed to share the <br />roads with respect and shared responsibility for road safety, and that short and long term actions by <br />the legislature and NC DOT will be needed to address limitations of roads and laws. <br />We believe that any efforts to improve rural road safety should distinguish these rural road safety <br />issues from general cyclist advocacy. Our coalition intends to continue to work on these issues and <br />welcome the help and support of OUTBoard. <br />Thank you <br />