Dear Atherton Residents,
As your Chief of Police, I want to take a moment to address an important issue that affects all of us—bicycle safety. With more residents choosing to bike for recreation, exercise, or as a mode of transportation, it is vital that we all work together to ensure our roads are safe for everyone.
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, a parent teaching your child to ride, or a motorist sharing the roadway, we all play a vital role in keeping our community safe. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, and it's essential that we look out for one another.
At the same time, drivers have a crucial role in keeping cyclists safe. This includes giving at least three feet of space when passing a bike, checking blind spots before turning or opening doors, and slowing down in areas with bike traffic.
Our department will be increasing educational outreach and enforcement throughout town, focusing on both cyclist safety and driver awareness. We encourage everyone to:
• Wear a helmet every time you ride.
• Obey all traffic laws, signals, and signs.
• Use lights and reflective gear when riding during the day and night.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions, whether you're on a bike or behind the wheel.
• Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing.
Safety on our streets depends on mutual respect and attentiveness from all road users. Whether you’re on two wheels or four, your actions matter. Let’s commit to watching out for each other and making our community safer for everyone.
Thank you for doing your part.
Stay Safe, Ride Smart, and Be Seen!
Sincerely,
Steven D McCulley
Chief of Police