On the heels of a weekend bike accident in Chatham County, a bike event called Durham's Critical Mass is getting ready for it's monthly awareness ride on Thursday.

Phillip Barron, an avid cyclist, said he's noticed more and more cyclists on the roads these days because of high gas prices. But with more cyclists around, he said there's a greater need for cyclists and drivers to look out for each other.

"North Carolina statute says bikes are vehicles and as vehicles, we have a right to be on the road," said Barron.

Frank Ferrell, a member of the Durham Bike Co-Op, said the Critical Mass ride is about promoting biking in Durham, but also educating people on how to stay safe while sharing the road.

"You always want to check an intersection before you merge into it," Ferrell said. "And bike defensively because you never know what a car will do."

Cyclists of all experience levels can join in on the ride. At least 50 people are expected to show up.

"Riding with a group is a good way to gain confidence," said Barron.

And Barron said when it comes to staying safe on the road, a little common sense goes a long way.

"If I ride in a predictible way, and they drive in a predictible way, we won't have any problems," said Barron.

Participants of the Critical Mass ride will meet at 5:35 p.m. on Thursday at the C-C-B Plaza in Durham.