The third week of June has been designated as “Share the Road Safety Week” in North Dakota.
State Rep. Gail Mooney (D-Cummings) says the idea for the designated week came from an increase in the number of pedestrian and bicyclist deaths on North Dakota highways.
"There's a lot of conversation about what we should do," said Mooney. "Everything from increasing penalties for cell phone usage to the attire, the types of clothing people should wear when they're out on the roadways, to make sure they're seen more easily."
Mooney says the proclamation is a first step – to put a spotlight on the issue and get the conversation started.
"If we're in a vehicle, we have responsibilities that we have to be aware of," said Mooney. "If we're out walking, talking, riding our bicycles or running on the roadway, we have a responsibility. So it's bringing a higher awareness and elevate that discussion."
Becky Mathews of Bismarck is a running and biking enthusiast. She says she hopes this effort will teach drivers, runners and cyclists on how to share the road.
"I tend to stay to bike paths, because they're safer," said Mathews. "But there's times I want to run in more urban areas, and I don't always feel that cars are seeing me."
Mathews says when she started running, she didn't know the things she needed to do to stay safe.
"Reflective gear, lights-- those types of things," said Mathews. "I think education goes on both sides."