We’re standing behind a cyclist that was ticketed on High Street while, we believe, rightfully controling a travel lane. The case will be heard on Thusday, Jan. 14, at 10:00 am, in Courtroom 15A in Franklin County Municipal Court 375 S. HIgh St. If you’re interested in showing up for cyclist solidarity, here’s a little more information.

Michael O’Shaughnessy as ticketed under Columbus Municipal Code 2173.04 for not riding his bike as far to the right side of roadway as possible. He was apparently riding his bicycle in the middle of the curb lane on High Street…."controling the lane" in a manner that he felt was warrented due to traffic, weather, and road conditions. It was 11:30 at night, rainy, and low-no traffic on southbound High St near Nationwide…where he was cited by police. 

He is being defended by Doug Morgan, who is on the Consider Biking Board of Directors.  Assuming there are no other circumstances we’re aware of, the bicyclist’s behavior to protect himself and take a visible position….clearly falls within legal parameters. We feel that this court case will present an opportunity to educate cyclists, motorists, even the police force, regarding the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists.

Consider Biking worked for six months in late 2008 to provide leadership & feedback to the enhancement of the Columbus Municipal Code regarding bicyclists’ rights and responsibilities on our roadways.  We have some very progressive language that protects bicycists that ride as "vehicular cyclists" on our roadways.  

Location:  Franklin County Municipal Court – 375 South High Street Columbus, Ohio 43215

Courtroom 15A – Judge Maynard – 10:00 am.

If you have the time in your day, we hope you will consider heading down to the courthouse.