Everyone should share the road

Spring is on its way. As people venture outside more because of the change in season, it will also bring more chances for accidents.

The City Council is studying how, or if, it can improve how bicyclists, drivers and walkers share the road. Though the number of accidents reported to police is fairly constant, the number of complaints seems to be on the rise.

In the last six years, there have been 26 accidents reported involving pedestrians and vehicles, mostly occurring in the Town Center and along Island Crest Way.

There have been 31 accidents between bicyclists and vehicles during the same time period, mostly on East and West Mercer Ways.

Earlier this month, the council discussed various options to improve the traffic problem between the modes of transportation. Talk or requiring bicycle clubs, which often cycle in groups on the Island on weekends, to ride single file came up. However, the line of cyclists would then stretch out, possibly making matters worse.

A follow-up report will be made to the council in April after city staff members meet with bicyclists.

One idea that might prove successful is separating foot traffic from wheel traffic on park paths, such as the Lid Park.

However, the problem seems to be deeper than any law can address. Both motorists and bicyclists sometimes feel entitled to use the road at the expense of the other. Both have a right to the road and both should know the existing laws. State law considers bicycles as vehicles, and cyclists have all the rights and responsibilities of any motorist. Cyclists can also be ticketed for violations.

Whatever the council decides, the fact remains that everyone needs to share the road on this small Island with common sense and courtesy.

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