Bike safety, etiquette needed
Based on the number of complaints coming into City Hall, it appears to be time for a refresher course on bicycle etiquette and rules of riding.
Bicycles are subject to all the rules and regulations as motor vehicles when ridden on the roadway. That means it is not appropriate to go the wrong way on a one-way street, nor can you run stop signs. Speed limits also apply to bicycles, just because you are peddling doesn't mean you aren't speeding. Bridge Street, where the speed limit is 15 mph, is a good example.
The comment, "I have the right of way, this is a walking town;" is often heard. If you want that to apply, then you should be walking. When riding your bicycle through an intersection, you should stay in a traffic lane. If using the crosswalk, dismount and walk your bike across the street. It is no more proper to ride a bicycle through a crosswalk than it would be to drive a car through it. Bicycles should stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk just as automobiles should.
Weaving in and out of traffic and riding on the sidewalk and the roadway cause a great deal of concern for drivers in vehicles. Riding on the sidewalk in the downtown core of Sandpoint is not permitted. There have been many near misses and potential tragedies when bicycle riders try assuming the role of pedestrians.
Bicycle riding can be an enjoyable and healthy method of travel, but it requires the same amount of attention and due care as driving a car. Just because someone is riding a bicycle doesn't mean that everyone else is responsible to safeguard him or her. Several times a year the police sponsor bicycle rodeos for the elementary schools. Unfortunately, many of the complaints we receive are about the older and adult riders. Maneuvering through the streets of Sandpoint is becoming more difficult each day. A little common sense and courtesy on all of our parts can make it easier for everyone.
For more information on bicycle regulations, read Idaho Code 49-714 and Idaho Code 49-717.
RAY MILLER
Sandpoint mayor