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Press release from the Ottumwa Police Department

As preparations for RAGBRAI continue in Ottumwa and more people begin to get excited about bicycling in the community, the Ottumwa Police Department would like to offer the following reminders to the public:

• Bicyclists should always wear a helmet;
• Bicyclists should wear bright clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night to make it easier to be seen, if possible;
• Bicyclists are required by city and state law to follow the traffic rules, the same as car drivers;
• Bicyclists are required by city and state law to obey all stop signs and traffic lights;
• Bicyclists should use hand signals when turning and stopping;
• Bicyclists should ride in single file and must go with the flow of traffic (right side of the road);
• Bicyclists, other than small children, should stay off sidewalks;
• Bicycles should be equipped with proper safety equipment, including a headlamp and reflectors;
• Only one person per bicycle, unless it is built for two or more;
• Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians; and,
• Don’t ever assume a motorist can see a bicycle on the street.

Additionally, motorists are reminded that the speed limit around school zones and residential areas (where most bicyclists ride, particularly younger riders) is 25 MPH.  Motorists should also remember that children will be riding their bicycles both during the day and later into the evening as school is out and summer begins.

Finally, parents are encouraged to review bicycle and pedestrian safety rules with their children.  Parents should also designate where their children can ride and set a curfew on when to be home.