CYCLISTS: Don't ride against traffic

In a recent article by Tom Hasslinger concerning an altercation between a cyclist and an automobile, the cyclist's son observed that there are many people who ride against traffic and nothing happens. He was distressed that his mother has received a citation for the offense after being hit by a car.

Indeed, it does seem that the city was adding "insult to injury" in the truest sense of the words. However, riding against traffic is the top reason that cyclists are injured or killed. One study has shown that riding the wrong way is three times as dangerous as riding the right way, and for kids, the risk is seven times greater. (Source: bicyclesafe.com) Riding against traffic is against the law for a good reason.

The city of Coeur d'Alene's Ped/Bike Committee is all too aware of the mistaken perception among both adults and children that it is better to cycle facing traffic. This is what we are taught when we walk, but it does not apply to cycling! The motto to remember is "Ride Right, Walk Left."

"Ride Right" will be the focus of an upcoming education program that our committee will be conducting in the schools this year. But parents can start today educating their kids to ride with the flow of traffic, instead of against it.

BEV MOSS

Vice chair, City of Coeur d'Alene

Pedestrian/Bicycle Advisory Committee