Senator Beach,

As originally introduced, I understand that H.B. 4304 would have repealed the outdated 17C-11-5(a) that requires cyclists to ride far to the right on WV's roadways.  I supported the orginal repeal of 17C-11-5(a) that wouldn't require cyclists to ride far to the right.  

However, as far as I can tell from the current bill, it states that any person riding on a roadway must use a bicycle path when available or ride as close to the right-hand edge of the roadway as practicable with exceptions for (1) overtaking or passing, (2) a left turn, or (3) when necessary to avoid potential conflict due to objects objects substandard lane width, etc.  I feel the language is difficult to interpret, enforce, and doesn't improve safety for cyclists.  It may even decrease safety. 

As we all know, WV roads have many obstacles and dangerous attributes including potholes, narrow roads, curves, etc.  Forcing cyclists to ride to the right when no obstacles and closer to the middle of the lane when there are obstacles causes us to become unpredictable and weave in and out of motorists' paths.  So please repeal 17C-11-5 (a) as originally introduced so cyclists in WV will be safer. 

By passing safer cycling laws, which lead to encouraging cycling, WV will realize increased individual health and decreased health costs, decreased pollution, increased economic activity especially for local businesses and the tourism industry, and reduced transportation costs due to wear and tear on road networks. 

I have completed a Traffic Skills 101 cycling course that was taught by certified League of American Bicyclist instructors, regularly ride on Morgantown and WV roads for pleasure and transportation to work between 1-5 days per week, and have been a member of the Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board for several years.  As part of my personal experience on WV roadways, riding far to the right doesn't encourage motorists to keep me safer.  When I ride far to the right, motorists routinely pass me in blind turns and cut me off and intersections, to name a few issues.  I'm less visible to the right.  Not forcing cyclists to ride far to the right keeps us all safer.

If there is a way that 17C-11-5 (a) can be repealed so that cyclist can safely choose their position in the lane, I fully support the current version of H.B. 4304.

Thanks for your time and work on this bill.

 

Sincerely,

Derek Springston

1412 Buckhannon Ave
Morgantown, WV 26508