Bike rider to PTC path walkers: Lose the iPods

Tue, 09/15/2009 - 3:53pm
By: The Citizen

Harry Fitch has a good point about walkers having a right, like everyone, to use our cart path system, even if they do windmill their arms. I too use the system. I ride my bike often. I equipped it with a bell as required by law.
Perhaps Mr. Fitch should consider another point of view. When I ride, the bell I am required to use to warn others that I am approaching from behind has been rendered useless due to the use of iPods and headphones.
Generally speaking, almost every walker I come across can’t hear me and walk in the center of the path, blissfully ignorant of the fact that I have come to a full stop to avoid hitting them — or worse, causing a heart attack because of the surprise and sudden realization that someone zipped past them without their even realizing someone was there.
So, while I completely support Mr. Fitch’s right to also use the path system, I’d simply ask those who do to turn the music down to a level where they can hear what goes on around them.
Further, stick to at least one half of the path so others can use the path, too. It seems to me that if everyone used a little common sense this discussion would be rendered moot.
Rick Sanderson
Peachtree City, Ga.

login to post comments