RICHMOND—It’s important to always share the road—especially with pedestrians and bicyclists who have less protection from vehicles.

Gov. Ralph Northam officially declared September to be Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Month in the commonwealth.

So far in 2018 in Virginia, 61 pedestrians and seven bicyclists have died on Virginia’s roadways, according to Drive Smart Virginia, of which Virginia Farm Bureau is a founding member. Last year, pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities comprised 15 percent of all traffic deaths in the state.

Bicyclist and Pedestrian Awareness Month calls attention to the importance of sharing the road, watching for others and respecting other motorists and pedestrians. Drivers should always be alert and focused on the road, Drive Smart advised.

The organization also advised bicyclists and runners or walkers to wear bright-colored clothing made of reflective fabric and to carry flashlights or use bike lights for visibility. It also recommended wearing a helmet and paying attention to one’s surroundings.

Drive Smart Virginia wants to help drive future fatality numbers to zero. The organization’s website, drivesmartva.org/store, has free printed materials that can be ordered and displayed to help spread the “share the road” message with others.

Media: Contact Sara Owens, VFBF communications, at 804-290-1133.