Neighbor Urges Bicyclists To Slow Down On Sidewalks

The Laurelhurst Blog received this information from a neighbor:

On Saturday, June 13th about 5:30pm, while working on the parking strip in front of my house in the 4300 block of NE 45th Street, I was nearly struck by two teenagers on electric bicycles riding fast up the hill on the sidewalk towards Laurelhurst Park. 

I suspect they don’t even realize how close of a call it was. Approaching someone whose back is to you quickly on a bike is dangerous and reckless. I have known two people over the years who suffered broken bones (hip and pelvis) being struck by a bicycle. Of course for many people this could be a catastrophic life changing injury. 

Parents please coach and remind your kids to not ride on the sidewalk, or if they do, be very cautious when approaching people on the sidewalk. Ring a bell, make a noise and slow down. 

Apparently, “Seattle bicyclists may ride on any sidewalk provided they do so in a “careful and prudent manner.” [SMC 11.44.120]” I can tell you that from my perspective, these riders were not being careful and prudent. Here is a Seattle Times article discussing this issue.