2009 Transportation Map for Bicyclists now available
AMES, Iowa – July 30, 2009 – The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is now distributing the 2009 Iowa Transportation Map for Bicyclists.
This popular publication has been updated to show new four-foot, paved shoulders and recreational trails completed since the 2008 edition. As in past editions, the 2009 map highlights bike-friendly routes by identifying bike trails and providing traffic levels on all paved roads. The map also includes insets of Iowa's 16 largest cities.
By state law, a person riding a bicycle on a public road has all the rights and responsibilities applicable to a motor vehicle driver. A special “Rules of the Road for Bicyclists” section is dedicated to assisting bicyclists understand their rights and responsibilities and safely share the roadway with motorists.
Even with the safest routes mapped out, bicyclists are killed on Iowa roadways every year and hundreds more sustain injuries.
Reported bicycle/vehicle crash data by injury severity
2004-2008
|
Year |
Total injuries |
Major injuries |
Minor injuries |
Fatalities |
|
2004 |
481 |
53 |
200 |
7 |
|
2005 |
417 |
45 |
184 |
11 |
|
2006 |
468 |
42 |
215 |
5 |
|
2007 |
452 |
42 |
217 |
7 |
|
2008 |
454 |
48 |
255 |
5 |
|
Totals |
2272 |
230 |
1071 |
35 |
To reduce bicyclist injuries and fatalities, it is critical that both bicyclists and motor vehicle operators respect each others’ rights to utilize the system and follow all applicable laws.
Along with selection of the safest routes, bicyclists are urged to always wear helmets, use lights at night and watch out for road hazards, including parallel-slat sewer grates, gravel, sand, and debris.
The 2009 Iowa Transportation Map for Bicyclists is available online at www.iowabikes.com or by calling 515-242-4705 or 800-345-4692.
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Contact: Milly Ortiz at 515-233-7733 or milly.ortiz@dot.iowa.gov
