Bikers must obey rules
It absolutely makes sense for there to be an ordinance in place to protect bikers, but bikers should do their part too. (“Who owns the road?” March 13 cover story.)
My “near accidents” with bikers, as a driver or as a pedestrian, have without fail been the result of someone on a bicycle not paying attention to the traffic laws that the rest of us observe. Many bikers ride mindlessly past stop signs, failing to observe whether a car is at the intersection preparing to move forward. I was almost run down in a crosswalk (on a “walk” signal) recently by a biker going the wrong way down a one-way street.
I try to be aware of people riding bikes, whether I’m driving or walking. Shouldn’t they have to obey the same rules that we do?
Shannon McGinnis, 35, Andersonville
Wheel problems
What about the bladers? I’m an avid Rollerblader. While there aren’t that many bladers out there, cars and bicyclists are not too dear to us either. I’ve bladed on the bike paths, on the streets and the lakefront path [and all] are dangerous to bladers. Especially on the lake path, the bikers will literally try to run you off the path.
So I would love to see an article about the people who love their Rollerblades and want to see safe measures as well. It is tragic that bicyclists have lost their lives to automobiles, but I have had some close calls with both cars and bikers. So it seems that everyone needs to be more careful and aware.
Shahem Zenni, Rogers Park
Can’t have it both ways
My biggest beef with bikers is that they always want it both ways. Bikers want to be treated like cars and given equal respect and deference … except when there’s a stop sign or red light. Then they blow right through the intersection, because they feel they aren’t a car and don’t need to follow the rules for cars. Bikers want to rule the roads — they want cars to give them respect, but they expect all pedestrians to get out of their way.
Evan Montgomery, 35, Lakeview
A sign of independence
In response to the question: How do you feel about women keeping their maiden names? (“Maiden names become piece of identity,” March 13.)
I think it’s great that today more women are keeping their maiden names. It’s an example of how women have evolved into more independent selves than the women of yesteryear. Plus, it’s a way to stay connected to your personal heritage. I don’t know if I will keep my maiden name if I get married, but I’m glad to know that I have the choice.
Marisa Keller, 26, Wrigleyville
Game on
Stephen Markley, you couldn’t be [more] correct! (“What do men want? Video games,” March 13 column by Stephen Markley.) This is what we [guys] are really into these days. I can honestly say that I have passed up going out with friends on Fridays just to play video games. Video games do not disappoint you. And ladies of Chicago, when you don’t want to be bothered by us, don’t take it personally, but we really have other things to attend to. Like our “childish” video games!
Mark Mack, 29, West Side
