Bicyclists can get tickets, too

Editor

A long standing joke in Wyoming has always been:

How do you tell it is spring time in Wyoming? The license plates turn green!!

The other thing that we see when it turns spring in Saratoga is more people of all ages riding their bikes. There have been some concerns already voiced on bicyclist not stopping at stop signs or yielding to oncoming traffic. Bicyclists can also receive a citation for not stopping or yielding. When riding your bike you need to also stay as far to the right of the road as possible.

Remember when in the down town business area not to ride your bike on the sidewalks for the safety of the customers that are shopping. If you park your bike on the sidewalk do it in such a way that it doesn’t block the sidewalk.

The other popular mode of transportation is riding skate boards. (This was never for me but then I’m a klutz). Again please remember that you share the same responsibilities of the road as you would if you were riding a bike, including staying off the sidewalks in the downtown area.

The popular color of clothing for skateboarders seems to be black. During the day this isn’t such a concern but at night please consider wearing something reflective so the motorists can see you.

In 2013 nation wide there were 21 reported skateboarding fatalities, 12 were hit or hit a vehicle, 5 fell when (bombing) on their skateboard, the other four died while clinging to a vehicle.

We as motorist also have the responsibility to yield to those on bikes and skateboards when appropriate. Be especially careful when you are backing from parked position. Watch carefully at the intersections for our kids that may forget to stop because they are out having fun.

Have a safe summer.

Mayor John Zeiger