For Immediate Release

 

America's Voice for Motorists Addresses the National Bike Summit

AAA leader debuts new Share the Road PSA at the biggest bicycle advocacy event of the year

Washington, D.C. -- March 5, 2012 -- Bike helmet or car keys? For a growing number of Americans, it's not one or the other. As the popularity of biking rises nationwide, more and more people are motorists and bicyclists.

 

Today at the 2013 National Bike Summit, hosted by the League of American Bicyclists, that common cause was highlighted with a keynote address from the nation's largest advocate for safe and efficient mobility for all of those who use the transportation system: AAA.

 

"At first glance, it may seem surprising that AAA would be a leading voice at the National Bike Summit, one of the biggest bicycle advocacy events of the year," said League President, Andy Clarke. "But AAA has become an important partner in our work to raise awareness about the benefits of biking, improve the safety of cyclists, and promote and protect the rights and responsibilities of all road users."

 

Yolanda Cade, Managing Director for Public Relations for AAA, debuted a new Share the Road Public Service Announcement (PSA) that highlights the dual identity of many road users: driver and cyclist.

 

"As the voice of over 53 million members in the U.S. and Canada, AAA welcomes the opportunity to work with the League to reinforce the safety messages that both cyclists and motorists need to take to heart -- we have a shared responsibility, beyond just sharing the road," said Cade. "We all have the same basic need: a safe ride home."

 

Across the nation, policymakers are addressing that need. Currently, 39 states have an active Share the Road campaign and 23 require motorists pass bicyclists with at least three-feet of clearance, as well.

 

"We share in the enthusiasm from our Canadian partners at CAA and the Share the Road Cycling Coalition and we're pleased to bring their PSA stateside, sharing it with our members and the public," Cade said. "It reminds us that by showing common courtesy and respect on the road, we can ensure the safety of all road users."

 

To view the new PSA, created in partnership with the Share the Road Cycling Coalition and CAA, visit www.ShareTheRoad.AAA.com

 

To learn more about the National Bike Summit and see the full schedule, visit www.bikeleague.org/summit13.


Contact:  

Carolyn Szczepanski, Communications Director

(202) 355-3048

[email protected]  

 
About the League:  
The League of American Bicyclists promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation, and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America. The League represents the interests of America's 57 million bicyclists, including its 300,000 members and affiliates. For more information or to support the League, visit www.bikeleague.org.