Citizens reminded of new laws

    The days are warmer, the birds are chirping, and potholes are popping up faster than the green grass. Yes, spring has sprung in “The County”. And, along with the longer, brighter days come a few reminders from your local police department.
    The Presque Isle Police Department would like to remind folks that studded tires have to be off vehicles by May first. If you are still sporting studded tires after May 1st, you may be stopped and fined {$137} for operating studded tires out of season.     Some new laws to remember regarding bicyclists are:
• Motorists must give cyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing.
• Motorists may cross a solid yellow centerline in order to pass cyclists, provided it is safe to do so.
• Cyclists may move from the right side of the road to avoid hazards such as broken pavement, puddles or parked cars. They may also do so when passing another cyclist, turning left or proceeding straight in a place where right turns are permitted.
• Children 15 and under who fail to wear a bike helmet may be fined $25 after the second or subsequent offense. The fine can be waived by showing helmet proof of purchase.
• Liability is waived for businesses with drive-up windows that serve cyclists. This ensures cyclists equal access to banks, restaurants, and other businesses with drive-up windows that are often open later hours.
    Another new law that passed September 1st of 2008 is in the warning phase for operators. The new law states that it is against the law to smoke in a motor vehicle when a minor {under 16 years of age} is present. This law applies even if the windows are open. Again, this law is in the warning phase until September 1st, 2009 but you may be pulled over and warned for the violation until that date.
    Finally, please drive safely! People seem to be less attentive to their speed and more distracted by things around them when the weather is warmer and the roads are better – this is a good recipe for a bad accident. Spring also brings more and more pedestrians for motorists to watch for, human and otherwise. There is an influx of bicyclists, walkers, runners, and – oh yes – moose, deer, and other small critters. Be mindful to share the road and be watching for moose and deer, especially at dawn and dusk.
    Enjoy all the riches of spring and stay safe.
    Sgt. Laurie Kelly of the Presque Isle Police Department can be reached at 764-4476 or via e-mail at pipd@pipd.us.