Letter: Rollerblading law inhibits safety

Talk about it

With the unusual early warm weather, it has been great to get out and rollerblade for a great workout around our lake. Rollerblading takes strength and coordination to move along the roadway, on with having to watch for many obstacles along the way including traffic when rollerblading on the road where there is no bike path.

In a recent rollerblading experience, I was informed from an officer that I was rollerblading on the wrong side of the road going against traffic — that wheels are to go with wheels, and I should rollerblade with traffic. I find this very disturbing in the fact I’m now putting my safety in the hands of the motorists coming up from behind me.

Rollerblading takes more room to maneuver than that of a bicyclist. We are unable to stay close to the curb due to debris on the roadway. We are constantly looking out for this and, by going against traffic, we are able to look for what is coming at us and make sure we are able to move in time for the motorist to pass in case they don’t see us.

With the motorists coming from behind, we are unsure if the motorists see us. Not every motorist is paying attention to the road at all times. I personally feel very vulnerable with the motorists coming from behind — a total feeling of not being in control of my safety. I trust myself and my actions! Just because it’s a law doesn’t mean it’s right.

Tags: opinion, letters, worthington