Sunday, January 29, 2017

"Stop As Yield" Law in CO? Let's Make This Happen!

Coloradans, it is time to figure out who your state senators and representatives are and call them to ask them to SUPPORT Senate Bill 17-093! Remember to tell them that you are a voting constituent and/or how the bill affects you personally. This is a great way to get younger folks involved in civics! Remember, anyone who turned 14 prior to November 3, 2016 will be of voting age for elections in 2020. Anyone who turned 16 prior to November 3, 2016 will be of voting age for elections in 2018. More importantly, cycling laws affect everybody who cycles, regardless of their voting status.

Why are "Idaho Stop" laws a good idea? Here is a thorough explanation by Idaho Bike Law attorney Kurt Holzer. Here is a post regarding "Stop As Yield" (also known at the Idaho Stop or Rolling Stop) including video and fleshing out the argument that it is important to regulate a 30 pound bicycle differently than a multi-ton automobile. That said, I urge you to sit at an intersection with all-way stops and see how many cars come to a COMPLETE stop before proceeding through the intersection. There is no way police could ticket every driver who treats a stop sign as a yield sign, frequently putting other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists at risk.

It is time to acknowledge that bicycles function differently than cars, and that assisting cyclists in an easier commute is better for public health and safety, tourism, and the environment. Residents who cycle regularly are getting healthy, low-impact exercise. Tourists who use services like the Denver B-cycle will enjoy their experience more. Laws that already benefit recreational cyclists in Breckenridge, Dillon, and Summit County can be enjoyed statewide. Lastly, if people are safe and happy on their bicycles, they are more likely to choose cycling over motorized transportation with a high environmental cost.

10 ways riding a bike can save the world from http://www.movoto.com/blog/opinions/10-ways-riding-a-bike-can-save-the-world/