Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - Since the use of bicycles as a means of transportation has increased in Puerto Vallarta in recent years, the municipal government is promoting a reform to the city's Road and Traffic Regulations that will make bicyclists, and pedestrians, a priority.

In addition to driver education, bike routes and the necessary signage, the city is disseminating recommendations and guidelines for bicycling safely.

"Users of this ecological and economic means of transportation have been pointing out the need to implement truly effective measures that will protect cyclists and prevent fatalities," said Councilman Jesus Anaya Vizcaino, the main promoter of the initiative. He added that though the city has made substantial efforts in establishing bike lanes, there is still no adequate and comprehensive road culture. So he submitted for consideration by the City Council a reform to the Road Traffic Regulations, adding various provisions, among which are:

• Minors may travel by bike on public roads under the responsibility of a parent or guardian, but they must comply with all traffic laws and the corresponding security measures laid out specifically for bicycles.

• Bicycles have the right of way over motor vehicles on public roads, however they must responsibly share the circulation lanes on the extreme right with all motorized vehicles and public transports. Cyclists are prohibited from driving in the center or inner lanes of controlled areas like access roads, loading zones, and where so indicated by road markings and signs. Cyclists must keep both hands on the handlebars to maintain due control of the vehicle and its stability; must not circulate in the opposite direction of traffic, nor be 'towed' by holding on to moving vehicles.

• All cyclists are urged to wear a properly fastened protective helmet, which is a requirement for all riders under the age of twelve; and to protect their vehicles by parking in designated areas or authorized spaces on the street. They should always wear a vest, jacket or coat with a minimum of twenty percent of reflective material; and refrain from driving on sidewalks or areas reserved for pedestrians, unless in a posted multi-use zone, in which case pedestrians have the right of way.

Councilman Jesus Anaya Vizcaino said the reform to the Municipality's Traffic and Road Regulations alone will not generate the safe movement of cyclists unless it is accompanied by a campaign to promote cyclists' rights. Therefore, he also proposes that the Department of Public Safety instruct the Traffic and Roads Division to promote respect for cyclists and carry out the preventive and corrective actions necessary to achieve safety for cyclists transiting on our city streets.