The official Blog for bikewalklee.org. BikeWalkLee is a community coalition
raising public awareness and advocating for complete streets in Lee County, FL.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Safety conversation about cyclists and walkers wearing headphones
In the “Healthy Living” section of News-Press on March 29th, there was an article “Music hinders runners’ hearing”, which talks about dangers in running or biking with earphones, highlighting people's stories in our community. Kudos to News-Press for highlighting this important safety issue.
Although the article doesn't discuss the legal issues, Florida Bicycle Law Enforcement Guide, statute 316.304 says: A cyclist may not wear a headset, headphone or listening device, other than a hearing aid, while riding. Although it's not illegal for walkers/runners to wear them, as the article relates, it's not smart for anyone who must mix it up with traffic of any sort (so that includes on pathways as well).
What are your thoughts? Share your comments below. Write a letter to the editor of News-Press sharing your thoughts and experiences (mailbag@news-press.com).
p.s. On 4/12/10, News-Press published two letters to the editor in response to this article.
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Referred to as an AUDITORY distraction, this practice endangers those who believe it's not only legal but safe.
ReplyDeleteIt also can endanger others -- a motorist or a bicyclist who must maneuver their way around a distracted jogger may end up harming themselves or someone else, due to this auditory distraction.
ReplyDeletePlaying Devil's Advocate:
ReplyDelete"A cyclist may not wear a headset, headphone or listening device, other than a hearing aid, while riding."
But there are no laws against the deaf riding a bike.
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ReplyDeleteExcellent article. Very interesting to read. I really love to read such a nice article. Thanks! keep rocking.
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