Bicyclists need to learn the rules of the road

Bicycle riders, especially on the roundabouts, will you please either obey the rules of the road or exercise common courtesy (or perhaps both)?

In the two traffic roundabouts going up Harrison Hill, I've encountered way too often riders that zip through the crosswalks and dart in front of traffic. When in the roundabout, drivers are looking to yield whatever is already in the circle (coming from the left) and not necessarily cognizant of what is zooming down the sidewalk on the right.

Some of the bikes are like a rocket and riders do not look, hesitate, yield or even think of walking their bike across.

This morning, I had to stand on my brakes to avoid a woman coming down Harrison on her bike in the crosswalk; she did not hesitate or brake as she plowed through the crosswalk in front of me (from the right). Since she was wearing her helmet, I assume she has some measure of concern about her personal safety, but her actions didn't demonstrate that.

As a matter of public safety, common sense, and courtesy, I encourage riders to observe rules of the road. Either walk your bike across or get in the lane going the right direction. Smarten up - please !

This story was originally published September 1, 2015 at 8:46 AM with the headline "Bicyclists need to learn the rules of the road."