Staying safe on the road is everyone's responsibility. Bridgestone Americas is fully committed to educating all motorists — and particularly new teenage drivers — on the importance of safe driving every time they get behind the wheel. Cyclists need to be aware of road safety, too. Here are a few quick tips for how to safely share the road with motorists while on a bike:

• Know the rules: The same laws that apply to motorists apply to cyclists. Bicycles are considered vehicles on the road.

• Follow the rules: Just like motorists, bicyclists can be ticketed and fined for violating traffic laws.

• Take and yield the right of way: A cyclist should be given the appropriate right of way as if he or she were in a vehicle.

• Communicate with motorists: Use hand signals to indicate stops and turns.

• Maintain your bike: Check your brakes and tires.

• Wear a helmet: Protect your head, no matter how short the trip.

• Stay to the right: Always ride in the furthest right lane going the same direction as traffic.

• Pass on the left: Slower cyclists or motorists should stay to the right.

• Ride in a straight line: Don't swerve into the road, across lanes or between parked cars.

• Check your road position constantly. Bikes don't have as many mirrors as cars. Be aware of blind spots and check for traffic before moving within a lane or crossing intersections.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Anticipate hazards and adjust your speed and position on the road accordingly.

• Be visible: Wear brightly colored clothing that provides clear contrast.

• Be sure you are seen: Make eye contact with others on the road.