Six months ago in a letter in these pages
describing my own experience in bicycling Croton’s streets, I pointed out that
many states and communities had passed so-called bike laws setting reasonable
rules for observance by bicyclists and motorists. New York State
I urged Croton to consider passing its own bike
law. Unfortunately, a prophet is without honor even in his own village, especially
when that village is so bureaucratically top-heavy and ponderous as to resemble
a Hapsburgian principality in Mitteleuropa.
One might reasonably expect our village administration to demonstrate
concern for safe bicycling in a meaningful way. Instead, by providing parking
for bicyclists on sidewalks in contravention of existing law, this
administration prefers a shallow scheme to encourage business in the Upper Village
Croton can very easily regulate and promote the safe operation of
bicycles through the exercise of its legal powers. And what would such local
legislation include?
It would define bicycles as vehicles with the right to use streets
and roads in Croton. It would also identify specific areas where biking would
be forbidden.
Motorists must not sound loud blasts of a horn when driving behind
bicyclists.
Motorists overtaking and passing bicyclists on the left would be
required do so no closer than 3 feet. It would also require them to use caution
when opening doors of parked cars. Being “doored” is a common hazard to
bicyclists.
Bicyclists must obey traffic lights and signal turns or their
intention to stop by means of hand signals. Failure to do this is the cause of
most fatal bicycle accidents.
Bicyclists must give the right-of-way to pedestrians in
crosswalks.
All bicyclists must wear protective headgear.
Wearing headphones on both ears by bicyclists would be prohibited.
Each bicycle must be equipped with reflective red taillight, rearview
mirror, and bell or other attention-getting device. If operated at night, an
illuminated headlight and taillight must be provided.
One might expect that Croton’s current administration would
recognize the hazards in bicycling and make safety a top priority.
One might expect this—but one would be terribly disappointed.
