As a community, we need to be proactive in creating an environment in which the interests of bicyclists and motorists are protected in order to safely share the road.

People ride bicycles for three reasons -- exercise, fun or out of necessity as their main transportation to work, grocery shopping, etc.

The rumble strips recently added to S.C. 46 undermine safety for bicycles. Rumble strips are installed when the state Department of Transportation determines from accident reports that they are necessary. Rumble strips are a good thing for drivers and have saved many lives. Unfortunately, the type of rumble strips along S.C. 46 presents a danger to bicycle riders. The road has a very narrow shoulder, and at various points, it almost disappears. This can be dangerous for all concerned. Navigating over the present rumble strips has already caused serious bicycle accidents.

We understand plans are in place to improve S.C. 46. The Transportation Department needs to consider options that will warn motorists when they move out of the lane, but still maintain safe passage for bicyclists. The Palmetto Cycling Coalition has worked successfully with the department in seeking safer methods. It is foolish to jeopardize the safety of bike riders when safety measures can easily be accomplished for riders and motorists.

The important point is that it does not have to be "either/or." We can have both and make our roads safe for all who use them.

Lorraine Krawczyk, president

Sun City Cyclers

Bluffton