Lower Hudson Valley Town Fining Bikers Not Riding Single File

Should bicyclists not riding single-file be fined or thrown in jail? That's what one Hudson Valley town has decided, and others say that more communities should do the same.

If you've ever driven on a narrow road and come across a pack of bicyclists, you know how terrifying the scenario can be. Bicyclists riding next to each other can be a real traffic hazard. Trying to maneuver your car around the riders as they squeeze close together is a dangerous situation. One slip could mean the difference between life and death. Hazards in front of the cyclists that may be unseen to a driver could cause the bikes to swerve, causing disaster.

To remedy the situation, a Rockland County community has decided to fine cyclists for not riding single-file on busy roads. According to Lohud, Orangetown has passed a law forbidding the practice. Under the new regulations, a first offender could be fined between $100 and $250 or spend up to five days in jail. A second offense would increase the fine from $250 to $300 or possibly up to 20 days in jail.

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Some bicyclists say that the fines are too steep, and the law is unenforceable since the State of New York allows bicyclists to ride side by side. As more bicyclists hit the streets of the Hudson Valley the debate continues. Some drivers argue that roads without bike lanes are for cars, not bicycles. The State of New York has invested millions on new rail trails and paths, so proponents of laws like this say there are plenty of places for bicyclists to ride without creating a road hazard.

Do you think bicyclists in our area should be forced to ride single-file on the street? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below or on our Facebook page.

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