By Geno Schotte Santa Monica
Are Santa Monica Critical Mass (SMCM) bike riders in default with the actions and response they are having with the city of Santa Monica and its police department? Yes. Group riding is a event which distracts/obstructs normal operation upon public streets. This sort of group event requires a permit. Obtaining a proper permit will give SMCM or any other group activity the safety and respect from the public, the city of Santa Monica and the police department — a safe passage with no unsafe hurdles to clear. Riding in a group lies/falls under different rules/regulations that requires different procedures.
There is nothing plural about the California Bicycle Code. Just like the vehicle code, it states everything singular. One bicycle, one vehicle. This means, if you are riding in a group and your bicycle or others in this group are not operating/complying with the California bicycle laws, you/they will be cited. In addition to state laws, many communities have local ordinances such as Santa Monica. Check with your local police department regarding bicycle registration, licensing and regulations. Respect and obey the simple laws, rules and regulations. The police are not out there to hassle or harass anyone. They are there to protect and serve.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on December 22, 2007. Read the original PDF.