New Bike Lanes at UL Lafayette

Now that the Bike Lanes at UL Lafayette are open to Bicyclist, Transportation safety is a new issue that needs to be addressed. 

The most important aspect of the new bicycle lanes is the "conflict" area. This area in the bike lane, which is painted a solid green, means that cars that are turning right onto a side street will be entering into the bicycle lane. Cyclists must get in behind the vehicle, not to the side. And cars must get behind the bicyclists and wait for the appropriate signal to make the turn.  As a cyclist, it is important to ride like you would drive: defensively. These lanes are new not only to the cyclist but to the driver, so please be patient and watch for cars.

Be Visible. It's state law to have lights on bicycles! Using reflective materials and lights on bikes will make it easy for drivers to see you. Reflective vests and shirts are also recommended both during the day and night.  Cyclists who wish to turn left onto a street from East St Mary's Boulevard must get in line with autos. Again, obeying the laws as a driver would do.

When crossing a street in a crosswalk, bicyclists must get off their bike and walk it across the street. Please do not ride with the pedestrian traffic. It's hazardous for all.

Driver Safety. Drivers need to be mindful of bicycles. Do not drive in lanes that have a solid line. That solid line indicates that the lane is for bicycles only. The dotted lines guide cars so they can transition into the "conflict area" and make the turn. Cars must get in line with the bicycles and make the turn accordingly.

Pedestrians. Walk safely! Do not walk in the bike lanes. Make eye contact with drivers and cyclists to let them know your intentions and to make sure they see you! Cross at marked crosswalks and be aware of cyclists in the bike lanes. Don't walk out onto streets from between cars or mid-block.  See the St. Mary Street Diagram below:

St. Mary Street Bike Lane Diagram