With National Bike to Work Day observed Friday, I feel compelled to write this letter in the interest of public safety. This may come as a surprise to some, but a cyclist has the same right to the road as a motor vehicle but does not get the respect that they deserve since most motorist are unaware of this fact.
RCW 46.61.755 states “Every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this chapter”. As an avid cyclist I know first hand of the disrespect that some drivers give to cyclist, such as passing as close to the cyclist as they can get, throwing objects at them or at the very least yelling obscenities. To these people I say, “Learn the law as it applies to you.”
The blame for some of this attitude must be placed squarely upon the shoulders of the state of Washington since it does next to nothing to educate drivers of this fact. Now I will admit that most drivers are courteous and have no problem with cyclists, but many drivers get confused as to what to do when they encounter a bike upon the roadway. And this is due to the state not fulfilling its responsibility.
But this not a one sided matte r. There are those out there riding bikes on the road who are just as unaware of their responsibilities. They ride without helmets, ride on the wrong side of the street and do not obey traffic laws. To them I also say, “Learn the law as it applies to you.”
The cycling community, through clubs such as the Cascade Bicycle Club of Seattle, Bikes Club of Snohomish County and The Bicycle Alliance of Washington, does all itcan to educate and promote safe cycling in Washington. Many of these programs are aimed at kids to teach riding and to promote the use of helmets. If you are interested in learning more about safe cycling, I suggest you contact one of these clubs at their Web sites.
Law enforcement needs to step up and give citations to bike riders who do not obey traffic laws and to give citations to motorist who harass cyclists. It is only through education and people behaving as adults and living up to their obligations, that cyclist and motorist share the road.
With all the traffic congestion in the Puget Sound area, cycling remains a fun and healthy way to relieve some of the gridlock. So think back to when you were a kid and remember how exhilarating it was to be riding your bike – well, guess what, it still is.
Marysville
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