Editorial: Let’s make it safe for bicycles and cars

Wednesday, June 4, 2003 | 9 a.m.

State Route 160 south of Las Vegas, known as the Blue Diamond Road, connects with S.R. 159, better known as the road that winds through Red Rock Canyon. The scenic roads are perfect for a drive or bicycle ride. Yet they can be anything but idyllic.

Bicyclists often ride three or four abreast. This is dangerous, considering the many blind curves. And drivers often speed. This is dangerous, considering the many bicyclists. A May 25 accident demonstrated the potential for tragedy. A bicyclist on S.R. 160 was hit and killed by a motorcycle whose driver, police say, was speeding.

We suggest three things on these and similar roads: Bicyclists should be no more than two abreast. Motorists should slow down. And the state should erect "Watch for Bicyclists" signs every few miles. Also, the state should fix a problem on S.R. 159 that has been pointed out repeatedly by bicycle advocates. A state repaving and re-striping project left the shoulder in many places as much as 11 inches narrower than the 4 feet required by law. Eleven inches may not sound like much -- until you're on a bicycle with cars whizzing by. While re-striping is a major bother, doing nothing could lead to tragedy -- and liability.

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