It is of critical importance that bicycles become licensed.

Bicycle riders commit many infractions but as a community, we are unable to hold them accountable.

They ride slower than the speed limit often in the middle of the road.

They sometimes ride in pairs or more and often do not permit drivers to pass them.

Many times they wave drivers ahead on winding roads where the car driver cannot see oncoming traffic.

They are, as contributor David Evans said, often rude and arrogant!

In addition, many now have bright flashing lights that are extremely blinding and distracting to drivers.

Can you imagine the uproar if cars were allowed to drive with bright lights flashing!

I live off of West Mercer Way and we are limited in our routes to get on and off the Island.

The City of Mercer Island police suggested that I write to our state legislative representative or senator, which I did, but I received no response.

Licensing would bring in revenue and allow authorities to identify those bicyclers who infringe on drivers’ rights.

Couldn’t Mercer Island city council act on this?

Gale Kessler