Respect the traffic signs

Re: Let’s make our roads safer for bikes — and everyone — March 24

Wellesley Township appears to be favoured by cyclists, especially hilly Hessen Strasse that I frequently drive on. Since the hills in some cases can significantly restrict visibility, the township has posted signs requesting cyclists to ride in single file.

Last summer, driving the posted speed limit I came over a crest of one of the hills on Hessen Strasse and lo and behold, there were not two cyclists riding tandem, but three abreast. Because a vehicle was approaching in the opposite direction, I could not pass and had to “nail my brakes” to avoid hitting them. To my dismay, two of the cyclists proceeded to swear at me, using words not fit to print after I mentioned that single-file riding was the rule on these hill roads and had I been going any faster, there would have been two, and maybe three fatalities.

One more suggestion to make the roads safer for cyclists: We see construction crews, equipment operators, even bus drivers wearing fluorescent safety vests. While cyclists wear some of the fanciest outfits, often dark ones that render them difficult to see, especially in darker shady areas, why don’t we make it safer for both drivers and cyclist and have cyclists wear safety vests? They would be more visible.

Last but not least, respect traffic signs specific to cyclists.

Eugene Bersenas

St. Clements