Share the Road, Mayor Tells Bikers

    At the end of Friday’s East Hampton Village Board meeting, Mayor Paul F. Rickenbach Jr. came down on cycling groups who fail to yield to motorists or pedestrians. Mayor Rickenbach also admonished groups of runners who occupy more than their share of roadways. “Be civil, be cognizant,” the mayor said, adding that “some bicyclists and joggers are ignoring New York traffic law, which is not the way to behave.”

    He said increased use of the village parking lots compared to last year is a sign of increased traffic. “Everyone should take a deep breath,” he said. “In two weeks, we will return to normal.” He thanked the emergency service employees for coping well with heightened activity. “Kudos to them,” he said.

    The mayor requested that residents and visitors learn New York State traffic laws, which require cyclists to ride close to the right curb “in such a manner as to prevent undue interference with the flow of traffic” and not more than two abreast on public roads or shoulders. Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks when they are provided and safe to use. Where sidewalks are not provided, the law says a pedestrian must walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.