Beginning tomorrow, August 1, 2015 the Flagstaff Police Department bicycle safety initiative will include increased enforcement of bicycle safety laws, bicycle registrations, and general public education for the bicycling public.
Flagstaff frequently sees many of its residents and students traveling by bicycle on its roadways, sidewalks, urban trails and paths. When vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians share the same space there are inevitable problems caused by this congestion. As a result in August 2014 there were 11 collisions involving bicycles and vehicles (bicycle at fault 5/driver at fault 6). In September of 2014 there 8 collisions involving bicycles and vehicles (bicycle at fault 2/driver at fault 6), and in October there were 10 accidents involving bicycles and vehicles (bicycle at fault 6/driver at fault 4).
The following is a recap of the numerous Arizona Revised Statutes and Flagstaff City Codes that govern the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and vehicles:
• Bicyclist may ride on the sidewalk (unless a bicycle powered by motor), if not posted otherwise (A.R.S. 28-81 and F.C.C. 9-05-001-0007)
• Motorists must provide at least three feet of space when overtaking another vehicle or bicycle (A.R.S. 28-735)
• Bicyclists must travel as far as possible to the right hand edge or curb of the roadway unless it is obstructed, passing another vehicle or bicyclist, preparing to make a left hand turn, or when there is not enough space for a vehicle and a bicyclist to travel side-by-side in the provided space. (A.R.S. 28-815)
• Bicycles are required to have a front light and at minimum a rear red reflector if traveling at night (A.R.S. 28-817)
• A bicycle shall only carry the number of riders it was designed for (A.R.S. 28-813)
• All the same traffic laws apply to bicyclists as they do for vehicles (A.R.S. 28-812)
In September of 2009 the Flagstaff City Council adopted ordinance #9-04-001-0018 making it unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen (18) years of age to operate or ride upon a bicycle on any highway, street, road, sidewalk, bike-way or trail unless that person wears a protective helmet that is properly fitted and fastened. Violation of this ordinance shall constitute a civil traffic offense and shall be punishable by a fine for each offense.
Bike Helmets may be purchased at a discounted rate through the Coconino County Public Health Services District at 2625 N. King Street. Contact: Corey Cooper (Injury Prevention Health Educator) at ccooper@coconino.az.gov
The Flagstaff Police Department is encouraging the public to register their bike with the Flagstaff records department at 911 Sawmill Rd. This registration costs $2.00, and your registration will be listed under your name and you will be given a metal tab to adhere to the frame of your bike. This registration will make it easier to identify your bike if is stolen, and to contact you if your bike is located.