Letter to the Editor,
As the days get shorter and the bicycle boom continues, this is a good time for a few bicycle safety reminders. For many, the most glaring issue facing bicycle riding in the Greater Glens Fall and Lake George areas would be riding bikes at dusk or night without lights.
Just as for motor vehicles, it is the law that bicyclists MUST have a front (white) and rear (red) light when operating on or near roads at night. Of course, it is always useful to be courteous and anticipate un-lawful actions by others—always ride defensively! There is ample evidence that wearing a helmet enhances safety, as does bright, reflective clothing.
Bikers should ride with traffic on the right side of the road. We have no local laws against riding on the sidewalk, and sometimes this might be a safe alternative. However, if you choose to do so it is important to slow down and yield to pedestrians. Also be aware of people with dogs on a leash. When in doubt, dismount.
Some local restrictions:
Lake Avenue Park: https://ecode360.com/9944708?highlight=bicycles&searchId=31659154902181000#9944708
Shepard Park: https://ecode360.com/9944672?highlight=bicycles&searchId=31659154902181000#9944672
Blais Park and Walkway: https://ecode360.com/12559431?highlight=bicycles&searchId=31659154902181000#12559431
Charles Wood Park: https://ecode360.com/29569304?highlight=bicycle,bicycles&searchId=31659154902181000#29569304
We are fortunate to have some wonderful bicycling opportunities in our area and a vibrant bike community. A valuable resource for more information about local biking is www.bikewarrenco.org. When everyone does their part, we can continue to enjoy safe cycling. Please! If you ride at night use lights. Obey ALL rules the of the road, as NYS DVM considers bicycles in the same category as any slow-moving vehicle, subject to the same laws and regulations. Always wear a helmet and be courteous.
Thank you.
Harrison Freer, Queensbury
WCSQBO—rebranding as Adirondack Cycling Advocates, Inc.,
On-road Committee Chair
Contact info: p: 571.243.8239, email: [email protected]
Tony Krivitski, Glens Falls (editor)
Also a Board Member of ACA, Inc. Public Relations Chair
Home: (518) 798-6409, [email protected]
