Measure reinforces bicyclists' rights to the road
The Post and Courier
Colin Schaumburg of Johns Island rides down Maybank Highway on his way to work on James Island in February. Schaumburg said he has been hit while riding on the highway and has a mountain bike so that when he feels threatened by a car he can take the bike down into a ditch.
Dangerous places to bike
State Bike fatalities / per million people
Florida / 7.3
Delaware / 4.69
Nevada / 4.01
Utah / 3.92
California / 3.87
Oregon / 3.78
South Carolina / 3.7
U.S. total / 2.58
A newly passed bill awaiting Gov. Mark Sanford's signature would clarify that cyclists have as much right to the state's roads as motorists do.
If he signs it, the new law would successfully cap the Palmetto Cycling Coalition's two-year-long push to make South Carolina's roads safer and more accessible to bikes.
"This bill is about all road users sharing the road," coalition Executive Director Natalie Cappuccio Britt said. "It's about motorists and cyclists riding safely, respectably, predictably and lawfully so we can all go home to our families at night."
The bill says bicyclists may ride in the road or on the shoulder, and that they also may ride on the road instead of a multi-use path. When a road has a bicycle lane, the bicyclist must use it unless there is an obstruction. If there's no such lane, the bill says the bicyclist should keep to the right as much as possible except to avoid potholes or to make left-hand turns.
Bicyclists also would be allowed to simply point instead of using more formal hand signals to show their intention to make a turn.
The bill also says cyclists need brakes but not bells on their bikes, and any motorist who harasses a bicyclist by honking or throwing something at them could face jail time.
Cappuccio Britt said most motorists don't want to injure cyclists, but federal statistics show South Carolina is No. 7 in the nation in bicycle fatalities per capita. "There are those who, no matter what we do, don't think we have a right to the road and put us at risk."
If the bill were to become law, it would take cycling advocates time to educate the public and work with law enforcement to spread the word. One possible local impact is that it makes it clear that Kiawah Island's signs forbidding bicycling between the island and Freshfields Village could be successfully challenged in court.
The town put up the signs a few years ago after a few cyclists got hit, but Cappuccio Britt said the signs are among the most discriminatory steps she has seen. "I am sure the people that passed it had the best intentions, they just weren't thinking."
State Rep. Wallace Scarborough, R-James Island, said he agreed to be a cosponsor because it's important to share the road as a growing number of people use their bikes for transportation.
"There are lots of people riding their bikes up and down Folly Road," he said. "I see a lot more people walking to stores. I see a lot more people biking to the store and back, and I think we need to expand the rights of those people. As gas prices grow, I think you're going to see a lot more people use alternative methods to get to the store and back."
While Sanford himself has biked around the state, it's unclear if he will spot a problem with the legislation. House Bill 3006 is one of about 60 bills that landed on the governor's desk during the session's waning days, and Sanford hasn't reviewed it yet, spokesman Joel Sawyer said Friday.
But Cappuccio Britt is optimistic overall about the state's fledgling efforts to build a culture supportive of cycling. She noted when the coalition began to push for expanding cyclists' rights a few years ago, people already were voicing concern about oil reaching $72 a barrel and a gallon of gasoline costing about $2.75.
"We have a long battle ahead of us, but we're making good strides," she said. "You're going to be seeing more and more people riding bikes," she said, "and they're not going to be people in their Lycra."
Reach Robert Behre at 937-5771 or at rbehre@post andcourier.com.
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Comments
letstakeawalk (anonymous) says...
I don't see it as pandering, I see it as government actually stepping up and facing an issue while it's still fresh. More people are beginning to make a bicycle a part of their transportation lifestyle, and will be forced to use the same dilapidated infrastructure as auto traffic. Legal issues need to be addressed so that the rights of cyclists are reinforced. A cyclist may be a moment's delay for an auto, but an auto can be a lethal weapon against a cyclist. Besides, is it really so hard not to shout out your window, throw things, blare your horn, or rev your engine when you pass someone on a bike?
June 9, 2008 at 1:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
palmettoruckus (anonymous) says...
If idiot cyclists actually obeyed traffic rules, signs, and signals just like motorists have to, I wouldn't mind supporting this idea. Until then, this bill sucks just like all you fake Lance Armstrong wannabees.
June 9, 2008 at 2:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mf105 (anonymous) says...
Well said palmettoruckus , if they want to use the road make it a law they have to carry insurance to cover damage to other vehicles if they are at fault in an accident. Require them to pay property tax and a registration fee.
June 9, 2008 at 6:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Riptide (anonymous) says...
First, I ride a bicycle as a form of transportation and also a means of exercise. I use the sidewalks, paths, and bicycle lanes. If a road does not have a bicycle lane:guess what I do not use that road. It's not a question of a right, it's plain common sense and basic survival skills. These people who ride their bicycles down roads without bicycles lanes need their heads examined!!
This bicycle lobby is just another liberal left wing group who wants to spent millions of taxpayers dollars on expanding our highways so one bicyclist can use that road on a weekend ride. Another example of a small special interest group pissing away millions of taxpayers dollars.
June 9, 2008 at 6:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
thatpalmettoguy (anonymous) says...
What ignorant comments. "if they want to use the road make it a law they have to carry insurance to cover damage to other vehicles if they are at fault in an accident"..... are you kidding me? If a cyclist gets in a wreck with a car there is a high chance they won't even survive and you are worrying about your car?? This is exactly what the bill is for, protecting the other people that have a right to the road from idiot drivers such as you.
June 9, 2008 at 6:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mf105 (anonymous) says...
If someone in a car hits you , they are at fault, and killed or not their insurance pays to fix your vehicle.
June 9, 2008 at 7:19 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogwoodroad (anonymous) says...
um...if the cyclist runs a stop sign, and that is why you hit him with your car, then it is the cyclist's fault. In that case, the cyclist's insurance should probably pay for your mental health problems that result from his or her poor judgement.
June 9, 2008 at 7:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
UrGatorbait (anonymous) says...
Well said palmetto ruckus, typical ignorant response from those selfish enough to be granted a license. Maybe you should consider others but I consider the source that probably considers driving a right.
Of course there's already laws on use of the road but as aptly demonstrated by selfish p****** on here bicycles seem to be fair game instead of an alternate form of transportation/exercise.
I don't think it's a "libby thing" opening up a few more select roads to enjoy the beauty of the state and local area is a good business/economic decision with the price of fuel. The area is already a tourist destination why not add another dimension and add bicycle tours/packages. For business commerce I would think people riding their bikes to a park and ride is also another tool in reducing our dependence on foreign oil. Makes sense. I agree that riding a bike is tantamount to suicide on some of these roads given the attitude of a couple of the brain cells posting here.
June 9, 2008 at 7:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
RTC (anonymous) says...
My husband and I enjoy recreational biking, but we don't care to go on any major roads. It is not only dangerous, but if there is not a designated path, then you put yourself at risk, and hinder traffic by riding in the road.
As far as honking the horn goes, I do it if a bicyclist swerves in front of me as a warning, not as a form of harrassment. I think it is wrong to allow cyclist to ride in the road when there is a multi use path, unless they are only going around a walker or jogger.
Just look at the picture with this article. The one car is way out of his lane to avoid the cyclist.
Most conscientious drivers do watch out for bikes, but I am afraid of an increase in accidents with cars swerving around bikes to avoid clipping them when they ride on major thoroughfares. This article doesn't say if the law will allow cyclist to start riding on interstates. I truly hope not.
Many past laws were designed to save lives, not to hinder a bike rider's freedom.
June 9, 2008 at 7:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
number1volsfan1 (anonymous) says...
Federal law prohibits any non-motorized vehicle from entering the interstate highway.
June 9, 2008 at 8:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chucktownexpat (anonymous) says...
I ride my bike to work -- up in New York state. Except for a few spots such as the peninsula and places where congestion keeps traffic moving slowly, it would be suicide in the Lowcountry. I can do it here because it's only a mile, flat, and there's virtually no traffic on the side streets I take. (It's also seldom hot as blazes, though today is an exception). But around Charleston and most of the South, the roads have no shoulders. Here, perhaps because there has to be a place to plow the snow onto in the winter, most state and county roads have wide, paved shoulders that give cyclists some emergency room or in many cases provide a de facto bike path. It's good the state has this bill, but law won't change drivers' habits, at least not right away. (Bikes are expressly forbidden on interstates). With $4-plus gas, more drivers are going to at least think about a bike or something, so a little self-interested sympathy would be good -- in other words, give that whacko biker some room because next week you might be one of them.
June 9, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
icbmman (anonymous) says...
Typical. Another special interest group who wants more "rights" but doesn't have to pay for them. They want the taxpayers of the highways to subsidize their cycling infrastructure.
I have no problem with cycle lanes on roads and bridges, but I believe that they should tax bikes in order to build them. We as drivers have to pay a tax for our vehicles' infrastructure...the same logic should be applied here. Sanford should at least make that recommendation before even reviewing this bill.
June 9, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
512c (anonymous) says...
wOW, I wish I had that list I made of all the cars plates... The cars that revved their engines and tried to run me off the road as they roared past me (as close as they could) and yelled at me.
I will call the police next time, instead of challenging them to duels (as I have several times (and each one of them stood down)).
June 9, 2008 at 9:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
theronce (anonymous) says...
I repeat...you cannot share roads without another lane with a bicycle...you must give them the road to avoid catastrophe. Now we have hate crime legislation, to boot. As with the interstate system, other roads need to be off limits. Folly Road is a good example of one. The record for that road is horrible, and it makes no sense to combine 10 to 30 mph 50-lb. vehicles in the same lane as 40 to 50 mph 2000+ lb. vehicles.
June 9, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
LadyTarHeel (anonymous) says...
dogwood: I understand what you are saying. Someone ran into my car that way once downtown. I was sitting at a stop sign, waiting my turn and they decided they wanted to cut through traffic and cross the street. They ran smack into the side of my car and then had the nerve to get up and yell at me as if I had done something wrong. Many times I have seen cyclists completely disregard traffic signals when riding with traffic. I was under the impression that cyclist had to follow traffic signals not only because it's the right thing to do, but because it helps keep them safe.
With all that said, I don't mind sharing the road, as long as it doesn't compromise my safety or the safety the cyclist.
June 9, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beth1070 (anonymous) says...
Some of our roads are just too narrow and winding for cars and bicycles to safely share like many of the roads on James and Johns Islands.
June 9, 2008 at 9:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
512c (anonymous) says...
Seriously, I know the rules, and usually ignore the right I have to ride (as far to the right, and politely as possible)
aLMOST EVERY SINGLE TIME i CHOOSE TO RIDE IN THE RIGHT, i GET SOME JERK BEHIND ME THAT IS AFRAID TO PASS ME, SO THEY SIT THERE AND REV THEIR ENGINE, HONK AT ME, AND CURSE.
THEN THEY ROAR PAST AND YELL...
June 9, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nappyd (anonymous) says...
uh, 7th in the nation? could we get a # on how many fatalities that is instead of just a ranking? that's like saying pennsylvania is #1 in the country in horse-drawn buggy accidents, when there could be a very low # to that. and, since they can be pedalled, do the #'s in bicycle fatalities include Mopeds?
June 9, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coachken (anonymous) says...
Get a grip. What will a law do? What a waste of time.
Bicycles are not allowed on any interstate highway across the country. Why? It is dangerous, cars are doing 55 to 70 mph. The emergency lane is a perfect for a bike lane but it is against the law.
BUT it is not dangerous to ride down HY 17 or HY 61 with cars doing 55 mph. No shoulder or bike path for the idiots, they have a right to make people slam on brakes or swerve into the other lane.
If the speed limit is over 35 mph bicycles should be banned. Use common sense. I ride a bike for exercise, relaxation and enjoying nature. I do not put my life in danger, I am responsible.
What is the crap with gas prices, bikes are not the answer to the problem.
June 9, 2008 at 9:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
common_sense (anonymous) says...
Bikers are still 10 points, right?
June 9, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lou9 (anonymous) says...
When I encounter a cyclist on the road, I always slow down and go around them without honking the horn or throwing objects at them. If oncoming traffic prevents me from passing them, just as if they were in a car, I slow down and stay behind them. There are just as many stupid cyclists out there as stupid drivers. They give the rest of you a bad name with their riding down the middle of the road, weaving in and out of stopped traffic and disregarding stop signs and lights. I suppose this new law will make them feel as if they have the "right" to ride wherever and however they like. Well, tell the driver of the tractor-trailer coming around the blind curve when he comes up on you and sees you at the last minute riding in the middle of the road about your "rights".
More cycling lanes would definitely be nice and much safer for everyone involved. But the cyclists should have to contribute to the cost.
June 9, 2008 at 9:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Hwy. 61 and 165 are excellent examples of some people having no common sense when it comes to riding. Yes the scenery is beautiful and the speed limit is 55 on a curvy narrow road. I can't list the number of times I have come around a curve, doing the speed limit, and had to slam on my brakes and swerve because there are 2 or 3 bicyclists side by side (which, according to an officer I spoke to, is ILLEGAL). Quite frankly, if there is a car coming the other way in that situation and I am unable to stop I'm going to plow the bicycles down; I am not going to sacrifice my children nor myself for one or two bicyclists that want to take on a 2000+ pound vehicle to prove a point. If you rode single file I would not have to make a choice like that, there would be plenty of room for me to move around you.
When bicyclists begin to obey the laws THEN AND ONLY THEN you will get my respect. I am sick of coming to a 4 way stop sign and watching the first bike stop then sitting for 5 minutes as the rest of the pack keep going and going and going and going. 1 bike = 1 mode of transport (car, motorcycle, moped, etc.). I see bicyclist just turn in front of you with no indication they are going to do so, weaving all over the lane, running stop signs and traffic lights plus many more bone-headed moves.
I know that the ones I see exhibiting this behavior are nothing more than good-weather weekend wannabe's so maybe a "rider's education" class should be considered. You have to pass a test to drive a car on state maintained roads so why not have to take one to bicycle on the same roads? (And before you start spouting off about how stupid that is, I am not talking about neighborhood streets and the like, I am talking about people that want to ride on HIGHWAYS and high traffic volume roads)
June 9, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Perspective (anonymous) says...
Common_sense
10 points for a bicyclist! That is ridiculous! They are only 10 points if they are carrying something. Without baggage they are only 7 points. If the bike is worth more than your car then they are 8 points.
On a serious note:
There are some bikes out there that cost thousands of dollars. What idiot rides a bike in the roadway with the number of drunks and stupid driver's on the road? If you have an expensive road bike, then you can afford safe transportation.
Yelling at a bicyclist is not the same as yelling "Fire" in a movie theater, therefore if this law is challenged I think it will be overturned. Freedom of speech is being able to yell, "Idiot" at someone riding a toy in the roadway.
Geez... leave it to SC to pass a feel good law in direct violation of my constitutional right to call someone an idiot. Is it okay to pull along side of them and call them an idiot if I do not yell? What if there is heavy traffic and they can't hear me unless I raise my voice? What if I am saying "Hey, you f-ing idiot you are about to get run over by that truck!" Will I get in trouble for warning them? What if I warn them and they don't get hit? Will it then be considered harassment?
Thomas1776 - You seem to have a lot of legal knowledge. Would you please help with this constitutional problem?
June 9, 2008 at 10:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
navycarlos (anonymous) says...
Bicyclists should not have to stay to the right. They have a right to the entire lane. One of the biggest causes of accidents is autos that sideswipe bikers as they pass them. The law should emphatically state that the entire lane belongs to the cyclists just as it if they were a car.
June 9, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
My children know the rules of the road. They have since they began riding bicycles at the age of 3. Ride with the traffic, ride single file as far to the right as possible, use hand signals, wear a helmet, obey stop signs (and any other street sign), and as an added bonus I TAUGHT my children that when there are cars coming both ways they are to pull off the side of the road, when possible, and STOP! Get off the bicycle and wait until it is clear to proceed. All this just so they can ride in a neighborhood with an adult.
June 9, 2008 at 10:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
512c (anonymous) says...
I spat on a lawyer once. (he tried to demonstrate his anger at my being on a bike by yelling and driving recklessly and said (as I drew in to spit) "you better not, I'm a lawyer.")
June 9, 2008 at 10:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
woodrob12 (anonymous) says...
When did riding a bicycle become a conservative/liberal issue? "Libtard"s (?), bicyclists being a "liberal left- wing group"....You guys are too ridiculous to be taken seriously.
Save your nonsense for the Rocky D show.
June 9, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
gcmadness (anonymous) says...
Got nothing against people riding their bikes on the road, BUT you have to obey the traffic laws! Just this morning I witnessed a person on a bicycle perform a "rolling stop" at 526 & N. Rhett, the light was Red. Hello! Pretty freakin' stupid if you ask me. Also, downtown people on bikes ignore stop signs. So, if you break the law, I WILL point it out to you, and I hope you do report me so I can tell whoever you report me to how much of an idiot you are!
June 9, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
navycarlos - see page 30 of the SCDMV Driver's Handbook:
While driving too fast is very dangerous, driving too slowly on certain highways can also be dangerous. You must never drive so slowly that you will interfere with other cars or trucks that are moving at a normal speed.
Many accidents are caused by persons driving too slowly. This causes traffic to "back up" behind them. Motorists in these "backed up" cars become impatient and are tempted to take dangerous chances while passing, in order to get around the slow-moving vehicle. This is why South Carolina has minimum speed laws as well as maximum speed laws.
... traffic begins to pile up behind you, pull over to the side of the road and let the traffic pass. Then, when the traffic has passed, continue on the road, but leave it as
soon as possible.
June 9, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Kerry (anonymous) says...
Is there no end to the useless leglislation the useless legislators in Columbia can find time to waste on to avoid the real issues facing this state?
June 9, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Larz13 (anonymous) says...
I see a major problem with the bill as written:
The bill says bicyclists may ride in the road or on the shoulder, and that they also may ride on the road instead of a multi-use path.
IF THERE IS A PATH, HOW COME THEY DON'T HAVE TO USE IT? Does this mean that they can be on the Cooper River Bridge in the travel lanes?
Also a word of advice...for those whom would spit on cars--watch out--you are asking for it.
June 9, 2008 at 10:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
I commute by road bike to work, and have encountered all types of drivers. It is amazing how angry some drivers get, and I will never understand it. I obey traffic laws and practice safe cycling, yet drivers still get angry. All I can think is that they're frustrated that they are stuck in cars.
As for the guy who said cyclists should pay insurance and tax--I would like to see you have to pay a carbon tax for using your car and polluting everyone's air. Charleston has consistently been rated terribly in air quality. I would also like you to pay a higher property tax to maintain the roads--my bike doesn't cause potholes, but I sure have to pay to get potholes fixed. I would also like you to pay a higher gasoline tax for using resources from overseas. Lastly, I would like you to pay a water quality tax for all the times your car may leak coolant, oil, or some other type of nonpoint source pollution that ends up in the Lowcountry waterways.
June 9, 2008 at 11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
drp7773 (anonymous) says...
Wow here we go again, people thinking we live in the 70's again. Dorchester Rd is not a 2 lane highway, I-26 is not a 4 lane highway for reasons, we dont have the dirt roads like we used to so bike riding does not make sense anymore. bikes should be used only at parks, Charlestown Landing, roads with bike lanes (sidewalks)10 times the cars as the old days, more distractions then ever hell cell phone use alone causes how many acidents, more kids then ever on the roads that are paying more attention to messaging and playing with the radio then driving. And on top of this the parents giving kids bikes and letting them ride anywhere (of course they have a helmet on) all I can say is up your life insurance you will need it to pay for all the expenses.
June 9, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justmythoughts (anonymous) says...
I think we should all ride bikes and sell the cars. That way we could get 100% safe bike riding on the streets of Charleston. Who would pay to repair them then?
Pay your own way and you'll be welcome by me.
June 9, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PalmettoDP (anonymous) says...
This law is redundant - something similar is already on the books. I do wish some cyclists (especially close to the C of C campus) would use a little more caution when riding - I see way too many college students riding through those four way stops without looking. Cars don't have bicycle-sensing radar. I enjoy riding a bike for exercise, but I understand that I have to use a little common sense and ride defensively.
June 9, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
If we all rode bikes and there were no cars, that would be great. And the same people would pay to repair that pay now--everybody. There would just be less repairs to perform, because less impact to the roads.
Seriously, I think some people are angry at bicyclists because they feel bad about themselves--maybe they are embarassed to get on a bike because they feel the need to impress others with fancy cars, or maybe they are self-conscious about their weight? I don't know. It just seems like the anger goes way beyond rational road rights.
And the reason why some cyclists don't go completely over to the right is because most cars will take over the cyclists' safe space. You have to take what you reasonably need as a cyclist in order for the car driver to realize you're there. And luckily, as a car driver, you will always get where you're going faster than a cyclist. So just calm down, give the biker some space, and go around when you can. You'll get where you need to go. It will be fine.
June 9, 2008 at 11:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cls014 (anonymous) says...
I use the Charleston area roads as both a cyclist and a driver, therefore I do contribute tax dollars to help maintain our roadways. I would love it if our roads could become more bike and pedestrian friendly (wide shoulders or pedestrian pathways) - it would alleviate safety issues and some of the obvious anger that motorists have regarding cyclists using the roads.
Bikes are here to stay - many Charleston area residents may use bikes in place of autos because they cannot afford to own a car or pay for fuel. Bikes offer a great way to get around - free and healthy!
Cyclists and motorists alike need to use the roads responsibly and follow all traffic laws.
June 9, 2008 at 11:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PalmettoDP (anonymous) says...
JIMrMOM - why would you choose to keep living in a place you have such contempt for?
June 9, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
This law is not going to do much. If you can't ticket drivers for road rage against other drivers how in the world are we going to ticket drivers for yelling at a biker in the road? It won't hold water. I do agree that we need to share the road but anything over 40 MPH is considered unsafe for a bike rider IMO.
June 9, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Floger76 (anonymous) says...
I can't tell you how many times I have seen a person on a bike completely ignore traffic laws. They continually run STOP signs, and lights. The only thing I can figure is that they feel they have the rights to the road as a cyclist, until they reach a traffic light, then they conveniently become a pedestrian and ride right through the light. Very dangerous.
June 9, 2008 at 11:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
I don't yell or throw things at bicyclist (not that I haven't wanted to on occassion) but I do believe that since bikes want the same "rights" as cars then bike riders need to obey the laws also.
THE LAW STATES:
You must never drive so slowly that you will interfere with other cars or trucks that are moving at a normal speed. If traffic begins to pile up behind you, pull over to the side of the road and let the traffic pass. Then, when the traffic has passed, continue on the road, but leave it as soon as possible.
How about following THAT one????
June 9, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Floger76 (anonymous) says...
ptmama73- No, they will only follow the laws that are convenient to them....
June 9, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ODIrony (anonymous) says...
I just want all of us who use the road to have equal rights. If bikers can ride on the left facing traffic, I want to do it, too! If they can blow stoplights, ride up on the sidewalks, make sharp turns with no notice; by golly, I ought to be able to do that as well.
June 9, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Cid95 (anonymous) says...
This law is useless. The problem isn't a lack of laws, it is INFRASTRUCTURE.
A two (or worse, four) lane road with almost zero shoulder and no sidewalk or dual use lane, in other words our typical Lowcountry road, CANNOT safely support cars going 45mph and bikes.
PERIOD.
If you've ever been to places like The Netherlands, Belgium or Denmark you will see what is needed for cars and bikes to both be viable methods of transport. Bike lanes on all roads, separate traffic signals for bikes in urban areas, drivers who have road courtesy AND riders who obey the laws. Many people use bikes as their primary transport, and cars for heavy rain/snow/cold weather. Perhaps as a result, there aren't as many fat bloated land whales as in SC. but that's another story.
Guess what, SC Legislature - you can't overcome the total lack of infrastructure with redundant, feel-good laws!
I like to ride, but I wouldn't put my life in the hands of every car that goes by. It only takes one...so I stay on smaller roads in the OV, the Ben Sawyer path, Sullivan's Island, etc.
Any places that lays claim to a nice standard of living, as we do, NEEDS to have safe places for bikes and pedestrians. Seeing people try to ride their bikes on 8" inches of pavement on the side of the road, or people walking in the weeds off the side of the road just makes me embarrassed for how lacking we are.
June 9, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PonyTail (anonymous) says...
Too bad Prozac isn't an over the counter drug. There are people on both sides of this arguement who need some.
The fact of the matter is that there are many roads that are not safe for bicycle riders to be on (like ones with speeds of over 35 MPH, or that are barely two lanes), and writing laws will not change that.
We really do need a transportation structure that will support the use of bicycles as a form of primary transportation, but until then, drivers should try to play nice with the cyclists and cyclists should respect the cars on the road. The respect thing goes both ways.
The number one reason that drivers are so bad here is because they have no respect for the rights of those around them. Driving a car, riding a bike is a priveledge, not a right. being safe one those roads is a right and a responsibility as well.
This law will not help, if people on both sides of this arguement don't look in the mirror first.
June 9, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
robbybobby (anonymous) says...
Great. More spandex boys, just what we need. When I was 12 i carried the newsless courier on a 26" one speed newspaper boy special with the heavy duty frame and fat whitewall tires, front and rear baskets and a load of papers that weighed more than me. I kept rubber bands on the handle bar and rode, rolled and threw all the time dodging dogs and cars. These weenies today don't know how to ride bikes, they are just out for show. No bike should ever be allowed to interfere with an auto in any way. Get off the road or take your chances.
June 9, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Floger76 (anonymous) says...
PonyTail - I think you hit the nail on the head. Most people confuse a privilege for a right. It seems that this law puts most of the responsibility on the motorist.
June 9, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PonyTail (anonymous) says...
So Elmer, am I to believe that you think that bicycles should be on interstates? They are part of the infrastructure. There is a point where speed and safety change how the infrastructure should be treated.
June 9, 2008 at 1:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Bike riders don't want the same rights as cars they just want to share the roads....WHAT????!!!????
That is the most mind-blowing comment I have read yet!
In other words, bicyclists are above the law and don't have to obey it?
If you want to travel on a public road YOU MUST OBEY THE SAME LAWS AND REGULATIONS that govern that road REGARDLESS OF THE TYPE OF VEHICLE YOU ARE USING.
As for the comments of being charged with vehicular manslaughter - HA! It would boil down to a "he said - she said" and when you pit 200 unprotected pounds agains 2000+ solid pounds only one side will be talking. Good luck prosecuting that one; you'd have to have a jury that was all bicyclists.
June 9, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
eatmorecollards (anonymous) says...
Lets be real, riding a bike in the road isn't much different than walking in the road.
June 9, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
theronce (anonymous) says...
Another reason I am glad that I will not live another 50+ years. Bicycles do not equal cars.
June 9, 2008 at 1:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
common_sense (anonymous) says...
JIMrMom, Delta is ready when you are. And I just scored 10 points for that witticism. No bicyclists were harmed.
June 9, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
common_sense (anonymous) says...
Why do I have this strange feeling the pro-bike comments are being posted mostly by non-locals? I mean, all these comparisions being made to places in other parts of the country & the world. hmmm.....
June 9, 2008 at 1:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beth1070 (anonymous) says...
Regarding the helmet issue....you're an idiot if you think a helmet is going to save your life when I barrel over you in my Suburban on River Road while you are riding in the middle of the road at 20mph, and I come around a curve doing 40mph.
June 9, 2008 at 1:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PonyTail (anonymous) says...
My apologies Elmer
June 9, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
I did not say anything about insurance; I said education courses and/or tests like when you get a drivers license and obeying the same laws as automobile drivers.
As for the I didn't see them coming - ask any family member of the MOTORCYCLISTS that have been killed in the recent past - I didn't see them coming worked just fine for those automobile drivers. And motorcycles are much more visible than a bicycle.
Hmmm...maybe once they graduate an education course they can get one of those nifty orange flags to put on their bikes to ensure their visibility.
June 9, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
If your kids (under 18) are riding down the MIDDLE of River Road you probably shouldn't be a parent anyway.
June 9, 2008 at 2:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Larz13 (anonymous) says...
THIS JUST IN--
Charleston, South Carolina has the lowest per capita rate of snowmobile accidents.
June 9, 2008 at 2:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
It is illegal to ride a bicycle in Charleston County without a helmet. It is also illegal to ride a bicycle in Charleston County on the sidewalk.
In addition, like I said before, I obey traffic laws as a cyclist. I always do, and make it a point to do so, because drivers are already irritable creatures. All of this arguing about whether cyclists actually follow the law--it's rare that I see a motorist who doesn't break a traffic law, whether it's speeding, edging into a crosswalk, turning right on a red that specifically indicates not to do so, not using proper turn signals. It doesn't matter whether a person is a driver or a cyclist--there are noncompliant folks in both camps. That doesn't mean you automatically discount one of the transportation methods because it's something that is progressive and frightens you.
Lastly, I believe that a lot of drivers need a refresher course if they don't already know these laws. I've seen plenty of drivers fly through pedestrian crosswalks too--I get the feeling that South Carolina drivers don't really know what they're doing, and I suspect not many actually have to take driver's ed in order to initially obtain a license. The anti-spandex talk is really odd to me--as a driver, you should be using your peripheral vision to drive safely around cyclists, not staring at their spandex. That's another tip you should have picked up in driver's ed.
June 9, 2008 at 2:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
duebici (anonymous) says...
Holy crap, you folks sure are lathered up over this one! So here's my 10 cents worth... Yes, there are some poorly behaved cyclists on the road. As part of the local cycling "establishment", I can tell you that this is a HUGE concern to us, but this is America and we can't control every boneheaded cyclist on the road. I strongly encourage you to call your local police department to report cyclists who break laws. We will happily encourage them to ticket/jail the worst offenders.
Next, think about the fact that it took us 100 years in this country to build the existing transportation infrastructure that was designed SOLELY for the use and convenience of CARS. The emerging realities of long commutes, global warming and $5 a gallon gas are going to make it necessary for more folks to ride their bicycles for transportation. Look around and you'll see that there are already quite a few of them on the road. These are the ones riding beach bikes, wearing street clothes, and riding against traffic (or in the median) in the dark. These folks aren't riding for their health and, I assure you, they are not thrilled about sharing the road with you! It is going to take years and zillions of dollars to create seperate bike paths for the increasing number of transportation cyclists. Call your city and county council representatives and tell them that creation of proper bike facilities will make it safer for YOU in your car.
June 9, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
common_sense (anonymous) says...
Delta flight 587 to Cincinnati is waiting on the tarmac for JIMrMom...anyone wanna give this person a bike ride to the airport?
June 9, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Larz13 (anonymous) says...
Early-
Not as bad as sitting on the bike w/o a seat. Now that would leave a mark in your spandex!
June 9, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
toastchee (anonymous) says...
Bikes on roads = good. Please be careful, people. I would love to commute to work on bike.
June 9, 2008 at 3:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
IsabellaDaniels (anonymous) says...
Wow it is heartbreaking to see such a lack of compassion for our fellow citizens and such ignorant comments. There is much to address from both sides:one the new law states that cyclists only have to stay as far to right as practicable but can "take the lane" when necessary. Bicycles are like other slow moving vehicles. To those that say they ride a bicycle for transportation but only ride on the sidewalks or paths, that is just not practical---first it against the law in most areas to ride on the sidewalk and for good reason:hello sidewalks are for pedestrians and are 10 times more dangerous for cyclists-many accidents in SC occur when cyclists ride on sidewalks. How could someone get around in Charleston by bike if they only used paths or bike lanes, there are not enough-you could not get anywhere. With gas going up more people are riding due to necessity and you know what that is how they support their families. I would much rather a person ride their bike to get to a job to pay their bills then to take more government assistance for example. Many people ride as a means of supporting their families. Also the taxes we pay are supposed to be in our democratic system for the betterment of the community at large, we entrust the gov't to redistribute the wealth---so what you pay taxes on does not necessarily go back to what you paid them towards. I pay very HIGH property taxes that almost solely go to public schools and guess what I have no kids! Every time someone cycles they are saving our crumbling roads and saving us money, not to mention the air quality standards-once we violate EPA air quality standards we lose money for roads-thank the cyclists. Many cyclists pay more sales tax on their bikes and bike accessories then motorists pay, since we have a $300 sales cap here for cars. When SCDOT and others plan they plan to move people not just cars:.there are many citizens that cannot afford a car and many more that soon won't, they deserve transportation options. Bicycling means a better economy and higher quality of life. North Carolina DOT just released their economic impact study on a $7million investment in bicycle improvements that have seen a direct return of over $60 million just from bicycles!
I am not from SC originally but these laws are what most states have and are moving us in a positive direction. People should educate themselves on the laws, they are good laws and I am proud to see that SC is making such positive strides.
June 9, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
toastchee (anonymous) says...
Right on Isabella!
June 9, 2008 at 3:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
miki (anonymous) says...
I HATE that bicyclists, especially downtown, can't seem to choose to follow motor or pedestrian laws. I can't tell you how many, most in fact at this end of King St., will pull up to the sidewalk in a heartbeat to not stop at a red light. They want to share the road, but not the stop light.
As a driver I'm also not certain what my rights and responsibilities are when it comes to bikers. that would be a good thing to see some coverage on.
June 9, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tammie (anonymous) says...
Early, read between the lines of your comment. I dont have a "bar"...Lol
And anyone who is crazy enough to ride a bike on River Road PERIOD...God speed.
June 9, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
drp7773 (anonymous) says...
Geez I just read the other story today where a drunk mexican carrying a case of beer was run over, now that all the bikers are going to be safe with the new law, welllll lets give the mexicans bikes and put baskets on them to haul their beer.problem solved
June 9, 2008 at 4:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Perspective (anonymous) says...
JIMomwannabe - I feel left out that you did not include me in your breakdown of why you are so right and SC sucks so bad. For I too, think that only a tool dresses up like Lance "Steroidboy" Armstrong and rides a toy in the roadway.
I agree that bicyclist should not be allowed on any roadway that exceeds 35mph.
Everyone should honk at every bicyclist they come across to ensure that for the safety of the rider they know a car is passing. If someone is ever written a ticket for honking at a bicyclist all they have to say is that they thought the cyclist was vearing over.
Everyday should be National Honk at Bicyclist Day.
June 9, 2008 at 4:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Way to fire 'em up ColdBeer!
June 9, 2008 at 5:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beth1070 (anonymous) says...
Ok......I concede...let's share the road with the bikes. But I do have a request:
Between the hours of 6 and 7am, and between the hours of 4 and 5pm, will you please stay the hell off of Folly Rd, Riverland Drive, Maybank Hwy, River Road, Main Road, and Bees Ferry Road. And on those periodic occassions when I get called back to work for an emergency, or when I'm on call, or when I'm going over to Seabrook to visit friends, or when we decide to go eat at Gilligan's, or when I go to John's Island to buy the best local produce in the lowcountry...could you just not use those roads during those times?
June 9, 2008 at 6:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svESinKW (anonymous) says...
I have depended on a bicycle as my only transportation in the recent past (not now, though) and have no problem with bicycles in bike paths or on roads with wide lanes.
I get angry (and rightfully so) at the idiots who insist on riding bikes on roads where there is no bike path. WHY do those who do think it is perfectly okay for car drivers to either 1) drive at 5mph behind them for MUCH more than just "a moment," or 2) cross the center line into oncoming traffic so they can "share the road????" That's insane. I am NOT going to risk my car, my license, and my life just to "go around" the idiot who thinks it's their right to ride a bike any way and anywhere on roads made for CARS and TRUCKS.
Just a few weeks ago, I was driving over Wappoo Cut bridge and a guy was on a bike, valiantly chugging up the incline. The left lane was full and NO ONE would let me over, although I signaled and they could see the problem, there was no room to pass him in my lane as the lanes are too narrow, so I was forced to drive at less than 5mph and then all the morons behind starting honking and hollering AT ME! Is that fair? NO. Is that right? NO. He should have gotton on the sidewalk and walked his bike over the bridge. Sometimes, as a bike rider, you have to do that for the safety of ALL.
This past weekend, two spandex-clad wannabes were riding in the right lane over the Stono bridge ABREAST. Everyone in that lane had to slow, wait for a chance to pass, and merge into the left lane. These dumbasses didn't have the COMMON SENSE or COURTESY to ride single file because the lanes across that bridge ARE wide enough to pass a bicycle without going into the other lane.
I think it was Cid95 who earlier had it right -- it's not the laws that are the problem, it's infrastructure. We need more roads with room to "share."
Until the unbelievably rude dumbasses with their holier-than-thou entitlement mentality get it right, and get off the roads when there is NO ROOM for them, I will continue to rev my engine and yell at them as I pass. Maybe they'll eventually learn. Until then, deal with it.
June 9, 2008 at 6:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rld1771 (anonymous) says...
I can see it now....cruising 55 on HWY 61 in morning traffic, cars bumper to bumper....go around a curve and all of a sudden it's brake lockup city....biker on the road doing all he can at 15 mph
June 9, 2008 at 7:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beth1070 (anonymous) says...
It would scare me to death to be a bicyclist knowing what kinds of idiots have driver's licenses in Chas County. I'm thinking some of these riders (the ones that do it just for fun) MUST be suicidal. My husband and our children and I ride our bikes almost every evening after dinner, but we don't dare leave our neighborhood. And my children know that hell hath no fury like mom and dad if we ever catch our children on their bikes outside of our neighborhood.
June 9, 2008 at 7:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillytheKid (anonymous) says...
It is still a say bike that weighs in at 20 pounds and a rider that is 150 pounds against an auto that weighs a TON. We have, all around the low country, trees that "butt" up against the road. A bike going say 15mph and an auto going 45mph will meet at one of these "bad" spots and the biker will make a bad choice. Dead right is still dead.
The biker has to use caution no mater what the law is.
Bikers do have a right to be on the road as do walkers, joggers and autos. The auto can do the most damage to the other three. Use your head.
June 9, 2008 at 7:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CedarPosts (anonymous) says...
GAG!
June 9, 2008 at 8:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rollo (anonymous) says...
I've been sitting at fourth in line at a red light and been passed by two -three bicyclists who seemed to assume that the narrowness of their vehicle rendered them with "special " rights.
I can't get away with that on my motorcycle, why should any bicyclist be allowed to?
BTW, they don't attempt that maneuver when I'm on the Harley. They know that I could chase them down.
June 9, 2008 at 8:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jhelms2 (anonymous) says...
I can not believe the nasty and brutal comments that are posted here most of you must not have any human respect for life or any human being. Are your drivers so damn impatient and in a hurry to past a cyclist on the road which has that same privileges and rights as cars do since gas prices on the rise and its there only transportation. If you read the rest of the laws for Bicyclist instead of what you want to pick out to bitch about you may learn something. Get educated. If lane is to narrow to ride on the left side edge of road you are allowed to take the lane. Its against the law to rid a bike on a sidewalk. I drive and a avid cyclist and race. Love the new law. Seems drivers in this state can not obey there on laws so why bitch about bicycle laws, When you talk about running a cyclist over due to their type of clothes, or just because there on a bike and on the road that gives you the right to threaten then of murder by running them off the road. You need real help. When you stress over their clothes (woman about camel toes your are sexual slandering them also against the law.I understand there are some riders out there that do not obey the laws are just not educated on them as 95& of the drivers are not the same. But once everyone respects the other and educates people the better it will be. Just cause you drive a car which is a privileged not a right. Does not give you the right to rule the roads we pay taxes on our cars home and out of our pay checks just like you. We are not going away Get over it Get a bike lose weight be healthier and ride.
Trust if i get your tag and you harassed me, deliberately try to run over me or a cyclist you will be reported. If i don't stop you first. I am more pissed off about you people talk about cyclist as wannabes and gay or road kill for pray. what if these are your kids would u still do the same are you actually human beings or terrorist. We are human too. If you can not show that respect then you should not be driving a car. Most of you have already been turned in to officials for the slander and hazard threats. Which is against the law. So be for you speak whats you mouths. I drive I am in no hurry I want to get there safe of or on a bike. The laws are made if either breaks should be charged. If u hit a cyclist and he of her gets hurt and u as a driver is at fault and you fib to get away with it for a damn excuse then god with make your judgment. If you are at fault you should be charged with murder/manslaughter.
Damn you idiot so called drivers piss me off..Why wonder our state has so many accidents...
June 9, 2008 at 9:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
duebici (anonymous) says...
Rollo,
You probably forgot about how you rolled past those same cyclists on the way to the light! This is called "sharing the road." Its fun and it works BOTH WAYS.
June 9, 2008 at 9:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beth1070 (anonymous) says...
Not pointing any fingers...but for those of you who are screaming that we should educate ourselves on the laws....maybe you should educate yourself on grammar, spelling, and punctuation. We all make typos but good grief, I got a headache reading one of the more recent posts.
June 9, 2008 at 9:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beth1070 (anonymous) says...
Report me please! I wish somebody would. Because in real life, I'm in the business of saving lives, not taking them. And some people take these posts just a little bit too seriously. If the truth be known, most of the people who post here just like stirring up the pot. I doubt very seriously that anybody is out looking for a bicycle rider to run over. So lighten up and realize that everybody just wants safer roads for all. As I have said before, there are many roads in Chas county that are just not safe enough for bikes and cars to share. If you are at all familiar with the geographical layout of many of our roads, then there would be no way that you could dispute (that means disagree with) that fact.
June 9, 2008 at 9:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jhelms2 (anonymous) says...
Yes works both ways. Its funny how drivers rush to get threw that yellow light just to beat the red. During heavy traffic block the road to other drivers just to beat the light. Cause your in to much of a rush. I agree cyclist should obey the laws just the same but also driver should obey there laws and they don't. SC is the worst due to the local police to worried about speeding 5- mile over then the idiots running threw lights, not using turn signals cutting other drivers off just to make that turn up head.The laws needs to be on TV in papers and educated all motorist Bike Bicycle or car. If they break them they should be charged. But give no one the right to deliberately, hit or embarrasses and individual cyclist/bicyclist and make a excuse that its there fault if the drive is at fault.Get off the phone quit reading the paper or book, playing with your Ipod. What where you are going. One said earlier if he goes to pass a cyclist and another car is coming hi way he would hit the cyclist then the car. Well he should make sure he has enough room to pass the cyclist as if it was a car and not put his or her self in that position.Its the law you have to pass a vehicle in a safe manner doe the same for a cyclist.
The law is there to protect both cyclist/bicyclist and cars. All and both should obey. We are all guilty of breaking them in a car or on a bike or bicycle. Respect , obey, both drive safely and we can all get home to our families after a days hard work. I would love to see some on you drivers ride a bike for a 100= miles at 23mph and put in 150-250 miles per week. You might live longer cause you are more healthy when you ride get off your ass and ride put the remoute down get out with your kids ride a bike..
June 9, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
whitesuthernmail (anonymous) says...
I've read a few comments about "wannabe cyclists decked out in their fruity regalia". The "regalia" has a purpose:
Lycra - snug clothes have less wind resistance. When you're only pumping out 1/4 HP you need all the help you can get!
Bright colors - to increase our visibility to other traffic. We know you wouldn't intentionally run us over if you could see us. Motorcyclists have the same invisibility problem.
Helmet - helps protect my brain in an accident; one of my two most favorite organs!
I'm not a "Lance Armstrong wannabe"; I'm just trying to loose a few lbs and save gas. And I try to avoid busy 2-lane roads.
June 9, 2008 at 10:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Perspective (anonymous) says...
Helms - Are you kidding? Those people who spoke of "toes" have the right to free speech. Although it wasnt very classy, they have the right to say it. You need to break out some law books if you think that the things you said are accurate. There is still some amount of free speech in this country and people have the right to say pretty much anything they want to unless they represent someone else (ie Imus) or if their words alone jeopardize other people such as yelling "fire" or calling in a false bomb threat. Regardless of what any bike law will say a motorist will still be able constitutionally call bike riders a Lance wannabe or a sissyboy. It is called free speech.
We will still have the right to honk at you if we "think" you are going to swerve in front of us. It is called "reasonable doubt". Good luck getting to a cop to write a ticket for someone honking to "warn" a cyclist. And unless you have 6 people wearing spandex and dipped in chocolate you would need even better luck getting a jury to convict someone of honking at at biker (again, who they "thought" was swerving in front of them). I hope you see the reasonable doubt built into this. "Motorist uses horn to warn bicycle and gets ticket." Someohow, I don't see that happening. Oh and best of all, get the license plate number and call the police. The only thing the owner has to say is, "Officer, I have no idea what you are talking about." Then it is your word against who? You picking the car owner out of a line-up. Any first year law student could have that ID thrown out of court. "Bicyclist picks out horn honking suspect from police line-up after only seeing driver from behind after driver maliciously and feloniously honked at him."
....I have no idea why people are making fun of these bike riders:)
And no, I havent thought about, What if these bike riders were my kids? Because I taught my kids not to play in the road and they are old enough to now know that it is dangerous and stupid to do so.
If you don't understand then maybe my 6 year old neighbor can explain why you should not play in the road on your bike.
June 9, 2008 at 10:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Perspective (anonymous) says...
jhelms said:
"When you stress over their clothes (woman about camel toes your are sexual slandering them also against the law."
"Most of you have already been turned in to officials for the slander and hazard threats. Which is against the law."
Exactly which laws did these people break? I would like to be able to read them, so please don't post them in Chinese, where (in China) is may be illegal to talk about stupidity and people's attire.
There is a video available of an idiot on a bike(toy) in roadway getting hit by a car. The car wins everytime. Was the bicyclist in the right? Does it matter?
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1294375...
June 9, 2008 at 11:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Cid95 (anonymous) says...
To the poster Common Sense who demonstrated none when he/she said:
"Why do I have this strange feeling the pro-bike comments are being posted mostly by non-locals? I mean, all these comparisions being made to places in other parts of the country & the world. hmmm....."
The ignorance in that statement is astounding! I'm as local as you can get, and your assertion that anyone that knows anything about anywhere else must not be native to the area is shameful.
I repeat: lack of infrastructure is the problem. As long as bikes and cars are trying to fit on roads made for cars only, this problem will continue.
June 9, 2008 at 11:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Perspective (anonymous) says...
http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/america...
Look at this photo. This drunk driver (in Mexico) didn't miss 20 bicyclist. What makes you think he is going to see one?
June 9, 2008 at 11:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
number1volsfan1 (anonymous) says...
I don't know how (some) of you people can so easily misinterpret the law! If I am invovlved in an ACCIDENT (especially if the orher driver is at fault) I cannot be charged. By your interpretation, any accident resulting in death automatically makes the surviving victim liable! This is non-sense.
June 10, 2008 at 7:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tammie (anonymous) says...
Yesterday as I am riding down River Road going towards Maybank, I see a bicyclist riding across BOTH LANES!! Doing figure 8's on RIVER ROAD!! This jerk waits to get over as soon as a car gets close enough on him. Someone blew at him, he flips them off! I'm not saying all cyclists do this but just please be careful and dont ride like that yutz!
June 10, 2008 at 7:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
After reading more of the comments, I'm starting to get depressed about angry drivers. I already have to deal with drivers who fly past me too closely, or if we're both approaching a red light, they speed past me as I'm sitting in line (read: I am not passing by them as they're waiting, but instead I am diligently following the law). It also saddens me that so many drivers don't realize what they're missing--on my morning commute, I get to see herons flying over the marsh, folks enjoying morning walks, etc. You guys stuck in a car, frantically speeding your way to work...you're really missing out.
I can tell you that the Charleston Police Department is incredibly nice about cyclists reporting drivers who behave dangerously. I can also tell you that, as a cyclist, I have become very good about memorizing license plates (especially when they are vanity plates), getting descriptions of drivers and the make, model, and color of cars. It's amazing how much angrier SUV drivers are than other autos. Comes with the territory, I guess.
My point is that the drivers who think cyclists aren't paying attention must be clueless. Every time a car roars past me, trying to crush me between himself and a line of parked cars because he has to get to that red light faster, know that I've got his description and the police are perfectly willing to file a report. It may or may not come to anything, but better safe than sorry.
Finally, I noticed a lot of you citing the rule that if a cyclist starts to have auto traffic building up behind him, he must pull over and let the cars pass. This is absolutely true. However, I have NEVER had enough cars patient enough to wait until it's safe to pass where a line builds up. Because there aren't that many patient drivers. The day that happens, believe me, I'm glad to pull over for a minute and let you pass as a courtesy. But we've got a long way to go.
June 10, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Thank you Ksz for admitting that the cyclists DOES need to pull over. I safely wait to pass and have been stuck in first gear waiting to do so - since most cyclists WON'T pull over. Which brings me to the revving...NO, I am not revving up at anyone out of frustration, I drive a manual and usually get stuck at a speed that is in between gears; if I go any slower my car will stall or buck (there goes the transmission) and if I go any faster I'd be bumping bike tires. As for the saving gas and environment comments - all that you saved by riding a bike, I (and the other mile of backed up traffic behind me) just negated that claim for you while I am idling waiting for you to obey the law and pull over to allow me to pass.
June 10, 2008 at 9:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carlosthedwarf (anonymous) says...
I don't have a problem sharing the road with bicyclists. However, they must observe the rules of the road, too. Too often I'm driving in traffic and there is a bike lane open but they're riding in busy traffic without a care in the world. Yes, sometimes I honk my horn at them, but it's a light tap of the horn to war them to get out of the way. It's not a rude honk.
I'm amazed at the dichotomy with South Carolinians who mostly are very friendly people with "Southern hospitality" yet get them behind the wheel of a car and they turn into "road warriors." They have absolutely no patience whatsoever and apparently they are dyslexic, too. They stop at green lights. Go through red lights. And they floor it when it's a yellow light.
June 10, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carlosthedwarf (anonymous) says...
South Carolina: near the bottom annually in education. near the top annually in highway fatalities. You figure it out.
June 10, 2008 at 9:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
ptmama--yikes. I don't know why you're stuck idling behind bicycles. You can't look in the opposite lane and go around the cyclist when it's safe to do so? Your argument makes no sense. I so rarely have cars idling behind me. Also, you're not actually idling, right? Which means you're still moving but going slower, so you're actually saving on gas and not emitting more carbon than you normally do.
The rule is that the cyclist should pull over out of courtesy if there's no way for a car to pass for an unreasonable amount of time. Unreasonable being more than a mile.
I have not yet seen an anti-cycling argument that makes sense on this comment page. I am sticking to my belief that drivers who get angry at cyclists following the law are upset about something deeper--low self-esteem, weight issues....It's not scary to ride a bike. I encourage all of you who so deeply believe in your car to try it out. Cyclists are generally pretty nice people--get pedaling with us.
June 10, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
patricycle77 (anonymous) says...
Someone in an earlier post inquired to the number of bicycling fatalities in SC annually. Over 16 people on bikes die per year on SC roads.
Many of the above posts have made the suggestions that bicycles should not be allowed on roads where the speed limit exceeds 25, and/or that bicycles should not be allowed on roads where there are no bike lanes or paths. Both of these suggestions are problematic. While some of you seemingly have less tolerance for recreational cyclist in spandex, these folks only make up a small portion of the bicycling community. I certainly agree that some of the referenced roads are expremely dangerous for cyclist, but it is important to recognize that not all people riding their bikes on these roads are doing so because they want to. I believe that those of us that have the financial ability to afford cars have a certain obligation to share the road with those whose only forms of transportation are the bus, riding a bike, or walking. Having said that, allowing bicycles only on roads that already have the 'safety measures' referenced severely limits the transportation capabilities of a large portion of the Charleston population. While many of these bicyclist are uneducated and do not respect the power of an automobile, it should not negate the goal of drivers to maintain safety on our roads. Education is key. Bicyclists AND drivers should follow traffic laws. Those laws should be enforced in the form of citations and tickets.
Included in those should be laws addressing honking, and overtaking bikes. I ride the bus to work in the morning, and I ride my bike home afterwards. The passing requirements provide a safe distance between cars and bikes. It is not just enough to pass a cyclist without hitting them. The wind generated by a closely passing car can be enough to destablize a cyclist. Further, honking and screaming can also startle a cyclist to their detriment. It is somewhat naÃive to think that someone on a bike cannot actually hear an approaching vehicle behind them. We can. You don't need to honk. I ride to the right of the lane, but when that lane is cracky and dangerous to ride over, I hold the lane. I have found that in many situations riding far right is much more dangerous than holding the lane. And while this frustrates many of you, I am not an idiot, I do value my life, and I would prefer to force autos to pass me in the other lane rahter than "buzz" me.
June 10, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
patricycle77 (anonymous) says...
my thoughts continued...
I echo many of the comments about wreckless, law breaking cyclist in the city. I have nearly hit more than one college kid riding the wrong way down a one way street with no helmet listening to their iPod. My hope is that a law such as this will facilitate education from all angles. Cyclist need to respect the roads, and autos need to respect cyclists. It is as simple as that. Following traffic laws, riding two abreast, and NOT on the sidewalk can make the roads safer for cyclist. Many are hit because they are not seen. Drivers are more likely to see two cyclist rather than one. And most drivers don't look both ways until they reach the end of their driveway, not before they cross the sidewalk. It isn't safe to ride on the sidewalk and it is illegal in the entire state of South Carolina.
As for those of you who suggest that road riding isn't a real sport and to try a real activity like mountain biking, I wonder what mountains you guys are traversing around here. Mount Pleasant?
June 10, 2008 at 11:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Tammie (anonymous) says...
I dont have a problem with cyclists, just the dumb ones like the one in my above post! And I can't get on a bicycle right now, I'm preggie.
June 10, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
ksz:
Talk to svESinKW who posted: This past weekend, two spandex-clad wannabes were riding in the right lane over the Stono bridge ABREAST. Everyone in that lane had to slow, wait for a chance to pass, and merge into the left lane. These dumbasses didn't have the COMMON SENSE or COURTESY to ride single file because the lanes across that bridge ARE wide enough to pass a bicycle without going into the other lane.
AND
Just a few weeks ago, I was driving over Wappoo Cut bridge and a guy was on a bike, valiantly chugging up the incline. The left lane was full and NO ONE would let me over, although I signaled and they could see the problem, there was no room to pass him in my lane as the lanes are too narrow, so I was forced to drive at less than 5mph and then all the morons behind starting honking and hollering AT ME! Is that fair? NO. Is that right? NO. He should have gotton on the sidewalk and walked his bike over the bridge. Sometimes, as a bike rider, you have to do that for the safety of ALL.
But I'm being illogical? It is not just me having to sit behind these smart weekend warriors. A reasonable amount of time is not a mile later when the speed limit is 55 mph.
Hmmm, makes me wonder if you are the one he/she is referring to...
June 10, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
Again, what roads are you on that are 55 mph where you are stuck behind a cyclist? I don't get it. I read svESinKW's post earlier. So he had to switch lanes. Why was that so awful? At least he had the option to switch. So he had to wait a bit to switch. I'm sure that has happened when you've been stuck behind a car you believe is going too slow. Why wasn't he angry at the drivers who weren't courteous enough to let him in the left lane? Seriously, how often are you in the situation on a 55 mph road, stuck behind a cyclist, with absolutely no way to get around the cyclist for more than a minute or two? How many times in the past year have you been in that situation?
I really think this is a sign you need to slow down in your life if you cannot generate enough patience to share the roadways with other forms of transportation. If you cannot calm yourself for a mile, then you're putting way more people in harm's way than any cyclists who may be near you.
No, it wasn't me on the bridge. When I ride with other cyclists, we're generally single-file.
June 10, 2008 at 12:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ptmama73 (anonymous) says...
Try driving hwy 61 on a nice weekend...watch all the weekend warriors riding 2 abreast and 3 feet or more into the lane. I'm NOT going to pass on a blind curve or when there is a vehicle coming in my direction.
I have no issue sharing the roads. No where did I say that. I said the laws should be followed. I also stated that there are obvious roads you should not try to bike on. Especially when they are treacherous enough for a vehicle never mind a bicycle.
As for my patience, I have plenty until I spend 5 minutes or so behind a bone head "proving their rights" by being inconsiderate of others.
June 10, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
patricycle77 (anonymous) says...
The verdict is out, Governor Sanford signed R367/H3006 today. Despite some of the misguided and incorrect comments on the page, this is the law.
Section 56-5-3420. A person riding a bicycle upon a roadway must be granted all of the rights and is subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this chapter, except as to special provisions in this article and except as to those provisions of this chapter which by their nature can have no application.
Section 56-5-3425. (B)Whenever a bicycle lane has been provided adjacent to a roadway, operators of:
(2) bicycles are required to ride in the bicycle lane except when necessary to pass another person riding a bicycle or to avoid an obstruction in the bicycle lane. However, bicyclists may ride on the roadway when there is only an adjacent recreational bicycle path available instead of a bicycle lane.
Section 56-5-3430. (A)Except as provided in subsection (B), every bicyclist operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable. A bicyclist may, but is not required to, ride on the shoulder of the roadway in order to comply with the requirements of this subsection.
(D) Bicyclists riding bicycles upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.
Section 56-5-3435. A driver of a motor vehicle must at all times maintain a safe operating distance between the motor vehicle and a bicycle.
Section 56-5-3445. It is unlawful to harass, taunt, or maliciously throw an object at or in the direction of any person riding a bicycle. A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than two hundred fifty dollars or imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.
Section 56-5-3500. (A) Except as otherwise provided, in the absence of another violation being cited, a violation of this article by the driver of a motor vehicle is subject to a civil fine of up to one hundred dollars unless a bicyclist is injured as a result of the violation.
(B)In the absence of another violation being cited, a person driving a motor vehicle who violates a provision of this article and the violation is the proximate cause of a:
(1)minor injury to a bicyclist, must be assessed a civil fine of up to five hundred dollars; or
(2)great bodily injury, as defined in Section 56-5-2945, to a bicyclist, must be assessed a civil fine of not more than one thousand dollars.
June 10, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
NativeSon (anonymous) says...
I hope they tell cyclist that there are laws they must abide by such as stoping at red lights and stop signs, having headlights on the bike when riding at night and stop running pedestrians down on side walks!
June 10, 2008 at 2:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kszimmer7 (anonymous) says...
If you want bicyclists to get out of your way, then you imply that you are not willing to share the roads. You further implied it by citing the earlier comment that suggested the cyclist get out of the way of cars by getting on the sidewalk, which is illegal.
I seriously doubt you have spent 5 minutes behind a bicycle. Maybe it felt like 5 minutes. But I don't believe it actually was. If you are taking 5 minutes to pass, then you need to practice being more comfortable as a driver on a roadway where you will encounter others.
No one said you need to pass on a blind curve or into oncoming traffic. You, as a driver, should know not to do so. It should be reasonable logic that if you are behind a bicyclist, you wait until all obstructions in the opposite lane are clear, then you pass. I think you're trying to find reasons to get upset.
What's with the term "weekend warriors"? Lots of cyclists are commuters. To work. Five days a week. 9 to 5.
Glad this bill was signed to remind everyone to be courteous to one another.
June 10, 2008 at 2:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PonyTail (anonymous) says...
Does anyone realize that Sanford signed this earlier today? There is a whole different thread going on.
June 10, 2008 at 4:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Sprocketboy (anonymous) says...
Having read the comments here, I would have to say that I would not be inclined to do a bicycle tour of South Carolina. I have read so many of these arguments before--including the tiresome and ridiculous one about taxes-- over the years (though they were generally not so vehement) that it is pretty pointless to refute them but there are a few things that should be said:
1. Most cyclists are also drivers. Many of the hostile posters seem to believe that cyclists are completely unfamiliar with operation of a motor vehicle. As a motorist, I generally have no issues with cyclists and have never been delayed for any longer period than when passing other road users, such as farm machinery. There are stupid cyclists just as there are stupid motorists: the difference is that the stupid motorists kill 43,000 people a year in the United States so enforcement really needs to begin with drivers. Many posters have pointed out that cars always win against bicycles. This is true, and therefore there must be a higher onus on drivers. I am conscious that if I do not pay attention when directing my 4,000 pounds of steel I could easily kill or cripple my neighbours, friends and other innocent people. The standard of driving in the United States is very low compared to other jurisdictions and if many of the posters here are incapable of passing slow-moving traffic safely they should consider turning in their licenses, or at least getting some training.
2. I find all this "Lance Armstrong-wannabe" trash talk irritating. As someone who has ridden a bike for longer than Armstrong has been alive, I can take credit for my own reasons for cycling. Do these same posters talk about "Marlon Brando-wannabes" when a motorcyclist go by, or "Dale Earnhardt-wannabes" when somebody drives by in a jacked-up Chevy? Another poster has already explained the practical reason for the clothing, so y'all can just get over it now.
3. Another poster said in defending some particularly dumb comments that it is a free country. It is true that you are free to express your opinion, but that does not mean it is a logical, acceptable or valid one, so I can disagree with it. And if it is a free country, a lot of South Carolinians seem pretty angry that other folks are enjoying a harmless hobby that is perfectly in compliance with the laws of the state.
4. I did particularly enjoy the post from the guy who delivered newspapers by bike as a kid and thinks that today's cyclists can't ride. Has he ever been out on his bike since then? If so, he is must welcome to ride up Mount Mitchell with me.
June 13, 2008 at 12:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
red25 (anonymous) says...
in response:
since a cyclist usually lives in the area, they probably do pay property taxes for the road they are using.
cyclists do violate traffic laws, and so do drivers. I believe police officers give tickets to both. The rules apply to everyone.
why do people not like sharing the road with cyclists? the most common problem I have observed is someone who doesnt realize they have enough room to pass driving slowly behind a cyclist causing traffic. If its a group of cyclists, well, they paid for the road too. And its probably a weekend anyway; whats the hurry?
you are in a car. to manipulate a car requires you to sit there and make small movements with your feet. It is not difficult. If you cant handle a 30 seconds delay to change lanes, I think you need to de-stress.
treat an inconsiderate cyclist like a inconsiderate driver. just pass.
I have had a gun pulled on me and my friends during a group ride.
June 13, 2008 at 2:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
redphone (anonymous) says...
A favorite comment of many drivers against cyclists is that we (cyclists) aren't paying taxes, insurance, etc etc and therefore have no right to the road. Firstly, cyclists do indeed pay taxes that contribute to road care, etc, along with a number of other facilities we may or may not use (ie, perhaps I should be cycling into your child's classroom and pop a wheely in their face.) I digress.
The fact of the matter is, there's a large contingent of cyclists who WANT to pay insurance. They WANT to register their bicycle. They WANT the luxury of legal protection that car drivers take for granted.
At the moment, all we're getting is doored into oncoming traffic, killed, and our families watching the person who opened a door without looking, get a 120 dollar fine. I think that earns us a little leeway in the mean time, don't you?
July 7, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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