To the Editor:
My family and I have been longtime Island visitors for several weeks every summer. As well as driving, we ride our bicycles extensively throughout the Vineyard. Over the years we have seen too many accidents, and many more near-accidents, caused by reckless use of mopeds. We have observed moped riders racing and leapfrogging one another, zigzagging over the center of the road, and riding tandem at extremely slow speeds (because of the combined weight) on what is really a glorified bicycle. Unfortunately the riders seem to feel that they are on motorcycles, and use the mopeds with little regard for the safety of themselves and others.
As cyclists, we have found the drivers of cars, trucks, and buses to be much more respectful of the Island’s traffic laws. At times, fearful for our own safety, we have pulled off to the side of the road and stopped in order to let a group of moped riders pass.
I urge the Oak Bluffs selectmen to fully enforce the Oak Bluffs moped bylaw, and due to repeated violations and nonenforcement by the board of selectmen, rescind all current moped rental licenses, as directed by the bylaw.
Bob Luke
New York, N.Y.