In the past few summer months, there have been far too many bicycle-versus-vehicle traffic accidents. Some of these incidents occur at controlled and uncontrolled intersections. The Hailey Police Department wishes to remind bicyclists and motorists that the roads are crowded and to keep an eye out for each other. Bicyclists operating on a roadway are subject to the same rules of the road as motorized vehicles. Some confusion exists on whether a bicyclist has to stop at a stop sign. Idaho Code states that a bicyclist, upon approaching a controlled intersection, must slow down, and if required for safety, stop before entering the intersection, and must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the right-of-way. Additionally, bicycles, either ridden or pushed across a crosswalk, enjoy the same rights and duties as pedestrians in a crosswalk.
Motorists who have been involved in accidents with bicyclists all say the same: They simply did not see the bicyclist approaching them, either at an intersection or in the road. Both motorists and bicyclists need to be watchful, especially at intersections and parking lots.
The League of American Bicyclists operates a great Web site (www.bikeleague.org) with safety tips, education and bike advocacy.
The Hailey Police Department hopes that our valley's bicyclists and motorists share the road in a safe manner for the rest of our summer season and beyond.
Dave Stellers
Assistant Chief
Hailey Police Department
