Quote:
Originally Posted by Robbie0723
Just to be clear, I wasn't questioning the LAW, (which is no reason to throw out courtesy and common sense...) I said it would be NICE if e-bikes used the diamond lanes when available. Especially in the southern sections with the extensive pedestrian paths (sidewalks) and separate diamond lanes for 20 mph vehicles like golf carts.
No doubt an ebike doing 20+ on a sidewalk would do some damage hitting a pedestrian.
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There is a whole lot of room of improvement on both sides.
First let's assume that no one petitions, successfully, to forbid ebikes from the pedestrian paths or change the recent state law which allows ebikes on those paths.
Walkers: walk on one side of the path. Be aware of your surroundings, yes that means get off your phone and do not use ear buds. Listen for the cyclist warning you of their approach. That may be verbal or a bell ringing. Acknowledge that you hear it (a hand wave). Keep your dog on a reasonable length lead, no one wants to hurt a dog or get a bite. Male walkers, get your hearing checked and treated.
Bikers: signal your approach, treat everyone as a blind deaf walker.
In my experience 50 to 70% of male walkers don't hear the frantic bell ringing behind them. Either they are deaf or think the ice cream man is coming. Women are much more likely to hear you if they aren't talking on the phone or listening to music. Most people appreciate the warning if they hear it.
We can all get along!