[Some interesting cases]
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The unwarranted traffic stop
I think Richard Moeur’s story is exemplary in both his handling and its outcome. I got several good take-aways from it:
- Ask the officer’s intentions. Find out what he is requesting (ride on the sidewalk, ride on the edge of the road, ride on a different road).
- Resist the urge to discuss the law right away and ask for a name and badge number
- If the opportunity presents, be armed with a copy of the statutes (you can get one free here)
- If the officer asks why you were riding where you were, present the pertinent talking points (know your talking points, I suspect most of our readers do)
In my opinion, it’s better to not get a citation than to have to deal with one in court (even if you win). In the event that the officer does not respond favorably to your roadside defense, the best course may be finding a way to comply without compromising your safety, then deal with educating the officer via contact with the department.
[I’ll note that I had success with “Excuse me, but are you requiring me to ride in an unsafe and illegal manner?” When ordered to ride on the sidewalk.]
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https://commuteorlando.com/wordpress/2010/01/26/the-enforcement-of-imaginary-laws/
Maryland bike laws (Outdated as a bell is no longer mandatory as is skidding braked wheels) oldId.20100128100406598