Letterbox - Bike Safety Article

Dear Watchers:

I applaud Jennifer Karchmer in her (October-November 2007) Part 2 article on “Biking in Whatcom County,” particularly her emphasis on bike safety for as she cited Jeff Hiles, “integrating bicycles into an environment dominated by fast and powerful motor vehicles is complicated business;” that “bicycles were here first” makes little difference if one’s primary concern is safety.

I very much hope more people will learn the rules of the road and refrain from the arrogance that often accompanies being eco-friendly. Not too long ago, Chuckanut Drive was occasionally closed to motor vehicles, a practice I wish they’d revamp. Due to worsening problems with imbalance, I recently gave up sea kayaking and am looking into a three-wheel recumbent bicycle to lessen my carbon footprint.

In her article, Ms. Karchmer mentions she’s from New York, which I assume means NYC. I was born and raised in upstate Schenectady, NY.