Mandatory BICYCLE lights
It's been long overdue that ALL cyclists should be mandated to have bicycle lights at dusk or after dark just like it's law for vehicles or recreational vehicles. This has been a consistent problem within the municipality for a number of years. I speak to this as an avid cycler as part of my lifestyle to complete various tasks [non-leisure or recreation]. There are many individuals who continue to bicycle in fall & winter months where it's dark by 5 pm. Everywhere I go no matter the season there are bicyclists of all ages & types [migrant workers, youth, adults] who are riding all over the place without any lighting after dark. THEY CANNOT be seen. I've had situations on my bicycle where I've almost come HEAD ON into another cyclist on the sidewalk or street because they have NO LIGHTS & were wearing dark clothing which made them blend into the night. I am specific & careful about my own actions. I take RESPONSIBILITY to RIDE SAFE; I have both lights & reflectors on my bicycle. I also carry a small LED light on my pull-along tote & in my hand when WALKING in winter to prevent being HIT by indifferent drivers. Leamington as a community in motion is indifferent to walkers & cyclists. It's getting over the top when cyclists are irresponsible in their actions riding against traffic lights, no lights...a random variance of things. The absence of bicycle lights is neither being enforced or paid any attention & this is incredibly irresponsible on both levels to ignore. I look forward to an action plan on this as it astonishes me more people on bikes are not HIT at any given time when they can't be seen properly. Thanks.
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Mayor John Paterson commented
Council agrees with you "Anonymous" on all those points. We have funded the Migrant Workers Program for many years with the focus being on bike safety. The OPP have been pro-active in bike safety. We have implemented bylaws restricting the riding of bikes on our Uptown Sidewalks to stop the accidents that were happening. We have asked for enforcement but you know as well as I do that the Police cannot be everywhere. Fortunately today (March18th) I heard a news report that the Province was finally stepping up to the plate to make laws in regard to the bike issues you have raised, more enforceable and expensive for those who chose to violate them. Here's hoping for a positive outcome. Mayor Paterson.