Share the road safely, responsibly Published March 16, 2011 By Derek Kaufman 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Each spring motorists and bicyclists are once again reintroduced on roads across America. Sadly, last week a Wright-Patterson Airman's life was tragically cut short in a bicycle-vehicle accident. I'm reminded that accidents seldom result from a single decision. More often they follow a chain of decisions or events, where had even one outcome been different, the accident might not have occurred. Safely sharing the road is more than a bumper sticker. It is a mindset that every driver of a motor vehicle and bicyclist needs to embrace each and every time they place a key in the ignition or ready to mount their bike. I often think I might not be alive today, had my dad not shared some sage advice when he handed me the keys to my first motorcycle many years ago. "Every time you get on that bike I want you to tap that fuel tank, tell yourself 'I am going to be careful today,' and ask yourself if you are ready for the responsibility of what happens next, because your life depends upon it." Dad was right. I eventually traded my motorcycle for a recumbent bicycle but I still internalize those words before I take to the road, whether on two wheels or four. Driving safely and predictably, making yourself visible, wearing the proper safety equipment, ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained, and knowing the law are all absolutely essential. But they won't guarantee you won't be involved in a crash. Equally important is anticipating what the other guy might do that could cause you harm. Who or what might be in my lane around that corner, over that hill, or just beyond the range of my headlights? And then there are the distractions. The spilled cup of coffee in your lap, crying baby, or song you can't find from your playlist all fall into this category. Consider how many times in the last week have you seen someone casually run a red light while talking away on their cell phone, or fiddle with a GPS, or text frantically as they speed past you on the Interstate. Driving defensively recognizes that too many drivers you share the road with are distracted, or even impaired by alcohol or other drugs. It also recognizes kids on bikes can be unpredictable, or that a bicyclist may not be able to ride in the breakdown lane or bike lane because it's full of debris, or that the bicyclist can legally "take the lane" when it can't be safely shared with another vehicle alongside. As a motorist, it may mean you will have to slow down and briefly wait until it's safe to pass, or give a little extra space when passing because the cyclist may need to avoid a pot hole. Bicycles are a wonderful way to commute, exercise and experience the outdoors. They are part of the nation's fabric. Sharing the road is an attitude. It's the law. And it truly demands your full attention. Please drive safely and share the road.