Cops to Crack Down On Cyclists

Park Slope police are cracking down on cyclists who break the rules of the road.

In an effort to promote bicycle, pedestrian and motor vehicle safety, the is putting an emphasis on enforcing traffic laws for bicyclists.

That means that cyclists who make a habit of running red lights or riding on the sidewalk just might get slapped with an expensive summons, or, if they’re lucky, a warning from local officers.

 “This is not a new initiative,” said a source at the 78th precinct, “But more enforcement will be implemented for bicyclists who disobey traffic laws. If [an officer] sees a bicyclist go through a red light it’s the same as if a car does.”

The 78th Precinct plans to help educate local cyclists about the rules, in addition to cracking down on them, by reaching out to local businesses and bicycle advocacy groups.

Some cyclists agreed with the crackdown, insisting that bicycles need to follow the rules just like everybody else.

“I think it has to be this way,” said area resident Jules Tachten, who was cycling on the sidewalk of Prospect Park West, alongside the Prospect Park West bike lane. “I know I’ll certainly have to change a few of my habits. But though this is less convenient for me, I think it is better for everyone.”

Other cyclists wondered if maybe the efforts should be redirected to tenants of the road.

“I don’t think bicycles are as dangerous as cars, and I don’t think the rules should be enforced as strictly,” said Windsor Terrace cyclist Jani Kipness. “I’d say the goal here is to create more revenue rather than more safety.”

The crackdown was first reported by The Brooklyn Paper.

For a full list of road rules that apply to cyclists, see bikingrules.org.

This story was amended to include a link to The Brooklyn Paper, who first reported the story.