As the weather gets warmer, we are looking forward to getting our patrol bicycles out and put to work. We hope to see our fellow cyclers out and enjoying all Aberdeen has to offer. In order to make sure everyone is being safe and following the law, here is a quick reminder on the laws regarding bicycle operations in the City of Aberdeen.
Where to ride the Bicycle.
- An adult rider of a bicycle may ride on the roadways and bicycle paths in Aberdeen. Children under 8 may ride on the bicycle paths, sidewalks (with certain exceptions), and may ride on the roadway to cross from one sidewalk or path to the next. Children should not travel on the roadways with their bicycles unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- No person may ride a bicycle on the sidewalk in the downtown business district. This area is defined as being south of Railroad Ave, north of 7th Ave, west of S Washington St, and east of S 2nd St.
- If there is a bicycle path adjacent to the roadway, the bicycle must be used on the path and not the roadway.
How to Operate your Bicycle.
- A rider of a bicycle on the roadway must follow all applicable traffic laws, including stop signs, traffic lights, one way streets, and using the right hand side of the road. Hand signals should be used to indicate turns, lane changes, and speed changes.
- A rider of a bicycle may ride at night, but the bicycle must be equipped with a light on the front that is visible from at least 300 feet away. The bicycle must also be equipped with a rear lamp, red or yellow in color, visible from at least 200 feet away. We recommend using a lighted rear lamp over a mirrored reflector, as this will greatly increase your visibility to passing vehicles.
- A rider of a bicycle may not exceed the posted speed limit, or ride the bicycle at a speed that is greater than reasonable or lawful given the existing conditions.
- Bicycle helmets are not required, but we strongly encourage you to use them. Bicycle helmets are a low cost safety device and could definitely save your life in the event of a crash.
What is a bicycle?
- A bicycle under city ordinance is defined as a vehicle composed of two wheels in tandem, propelled by pedals, and having handlebars attached to the front wheel for steering. Bicycles may be motorized, and are still considered a bicycle if the motor is only used to assist the rider with using the foot pedals. If the motor propels the bicycle without the use of the pedals, it is considered a motorized vehicle. Motorized vehicles may be used on the roadway if the operator has a valid driver’s license and proof of financial responsibility.
- Under city ordinance, the same regulations for bicycles apply to longboards. A longboard is defined as a skateboard with wheels at least 62 millimeters in diameter.
Violation of the City Bicycle Ordinances is a Class 2 Misdemeanor. If you want to learn more about the Bicycle ordinances, they are available on the City’s Website, under City Ordinances. Section 52-266 through 52-279 address bicycle operation.
Bicycles Licenses are available at the City Treasurers Office. They are not required, but having a licensed bicycle increases your chances of having it returned to you if it is lost or stolen and recovered by the City.
Have an enjoyable and safe summer, and we hope to see you out enjoying a great way to get around our beautiful town!
We are hiring for a contract cleaner. Duties include cleaning, filling small holes, drywall, painting and other duties as needed. If interested, stop by the office or give us a call!
Monday-Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
310 South Roosevelt St.
Aberdeen, SD 57401
Phone: 605-226-2321
TTY: 1-800-877-1113
Fax: 605-225-8220
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