The Cyclist's Bill of Rights

(bikers totally love the constitution, which is why we electronically deface it, if that makes any sense)

Bikers across LA loved the idea of a Bicyclist Bill of Rights, so a draft for the community’s consideration has been whipped up by some folks from the Bike Writers Collective:

The Cyclist’s Bill of Rights

WHEREAS, cyclists have the right to ride the streets of our communities and this right is formally articulated in the California Vehicle Code; and

WHEREAS, cyclists are considered to be the “indicator species” of a healthy community; and

WHEREAS, cyclists are both environmental and traffic congestion solutions; and

WHEREAS, cyclists are, first and foremost, people – with all of the rights and privileges that come from being members of this great society; and

NOW, THEREFORE, WE THE CYCLING COMMUNITY, do hereby claim the following rights:

1) Cyclists have the right to travel safely and free of fear.

2) Cyclists have the right to equal access to our public streets and to sufficient and significant road space.

3) Cyclists have the right to the full support of educated law enforcement.

4) Cyclists have the right to the full support of our judicial system and the right to expect that those who endanger, injure or kill cyclists be dealt with to the full extent of the law.

5) Cyclists have the right to routine accommodations in all roadway projects and improvements.

6) Cyclists have the right to urban and roadway planning, development and design that enable and support safe cycling.

7) Cyclists have the right to traffic signals, signage and maintenance standards that enable and support safe cycling.

8) Cyclists have the right to be actively engaged as a constituent group in the organization and administration of our communities.

9) Cyclists have the right to full access for themselves and their bicycles on all mass transit with no limitations.

10) Cyclists have the right to end-of-trip amenities that include safe and secure opportunities to park their bicycles.

11) Cyclists have the right to be secure in their persons and property, and be free from unreasonable search and seizure, as guaranteed by the 4th Amendment.

12) Cyclists have the right to peaceably assemble in the public space, as guaranteed by the 1st Amendment.

And further, we claim and assert these rights by taking to the streets and riding our bicycles, all in an expression of our inalienable right to ride!

This document will be making the rounds in the bike community for a while, so everyone will get to offer their support and input. What do you think? Let’s hear it, does it suck? Or is it super awesome? Is it funderous, or is it weak sauce? Argue about it on Midnight Ridazz!

The document was authored primarily by myself, Mikey Wally, and Stephen Box, as part of the Bike Writers Collective. You can read more about the Cyclist’s Bill of Rights at IlluminateLA, LAist, Homegrown Revolution, Street Heat, bloggingLA, and a couple other places I can’t seem to track down right now.

You have rights!!