I read Wendy Leighton’s guest column (April 21) regarding bicycle laws with great dismay. As a rural bicycle commuter I found her analysis completely lacking in understanding how bicycles and motorized transportation successfully share the road every day.
On almost every road that I ride, often with my son on a tag-along and sometimes with a trailer behind that, there is no paved shoulder. It is a rare occasion when two motor vehicles pass us at the same time, but when they do, the vehicle in our lane slows and follows us until it is safe to pass. We have never felt that we have overly inconvenienced anyone or have had any issues with angry motorists.
We also make every effort to be as visible as possible, and ride as defensively and courteously as possible.
Our cycling has saved us thousands of miles of commuting in cars, has reduced our carbon footprint, saved wear and tear on the roads, saved us countless dollars, and also keeps us fit.
As I write this on Earth Day, we all live on a planet that is imperiled by wasteful burning of fossil fuels, especially for short commutes that can easily be done by bike. Bicyclists, especially bicycle commuters, will be a growing part of the solution.
Our rural roads are not paid for entirely by fees paid by motorists, but rather by property taxes. As taxpayers, we should have a right to use those roads as we see fit, as long as laws are followed.
It is up to all of us, cyclists and motorists alike, to understand and follow those laws so that our roads can be safely shared by all. Bicycles are here to stay on Maine’s roads. They should be seen as an important opportunity to increase community health, help to wean us from fossil fuel dependence, and clean up our air — not as a nuisance to impatient motorists.
Scott Vlaun, Norway
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