More hostility towards cyclists.....

[TrekTheKaty]

I hate to say it, but there is more hostility towards cyclists coming my way. My sister has been informed by our local park rangers, that there have been numerous instances of pedestrian-cyclist crashes at our local park involving injuries/broken bones. They are going to start giving tickets.

I have no back-up information, but can only assume the tickets are for cyclists. Of course, it must be our fault. No need to repeat the thread about clueless pedestrians who are oblivious to their surroundings.

First of all, I don't know how park rangers can give tickets. And what will it be for? Speeding? DH has checked, and it says no excessive speed--what's excessive speed? Careless and wreckless? For what? I am trying to write a very polite letter stating that there are two sides. What do you think:

As a frequent visitor of Creve Couer park, I am concerned to hear there have been numerous incidents between cyclists and pedestrians. I kayak at the park approximately twice a week, and bicycle approximately three times a week. I am glad to hear there will be an increased ranger presence because of these incidents. However, I would like to share the cyclist’s side.
I frequently come up behind people who are either wearing ipods, talking on the phone or talking to others in their group. They are oblivious to their surroundings. I also frequently come upon people walking three wide or crossing over the center line without looking around. The third hazard is dogs, usually on a retractable leashes—while their owners are unaware their dog is stretched across the path. I have a bell and announce “on my left” when passing pedestrians, and come to a complete stop if I am unable to get the pedestrians attention and can’t pass safely. However, many pedestrians still seem unaware of the possibility of being passed by behind--by either joggers, rollerbladers or cyclists.

I hope this issue can be resolved with more public awareness of proper trail etiquette. We make an effort to say “Hi” to many of our fellow exercisers, and have even made friends at the park. I hope this problem can be resolved without any further conflict.