I read with interest last week’s Sounder Editorial, “Road safety.” Although the well-intentioned message offered some sage advice (e.g., turn signals provide useful information), it hinted that cyclists may not belong on our roads, pejoratively labeling “bicycle riders weaving into traffic” as a “unique danger” akin to our local roadside nibbler, the deer.

But unlike deer, bicycles aren’t unique dangers to traffic; they are traffic. According to the state Department of Transportation and Washington laws, bicycles share the same rights and responsibilities as cars. In Friday Harbor, many courteous drivers demonstrate an appreciation for this transportation equality and go even further, offering to yield to cyclists at stop signs even when it’s their turn (not necessary, but the sentiment is appreciated!).

Our islands are filled with creative people who need to move from point a to point b. Whether we’re walking, cycling, driving, riding a horse, skating or hoverboarding, we’re not obstacles, we’re just trying to get somewhere. Let’s embrace our transportation diversity and share the road safely.

Kyle Loring

Friday Harbor