The Riverside Police Department released cycling safety tips and a summary of relevant laws on July 24, encouraging both cyclists and drivers to stay alert throughout the village. The department highlighted the importance of following state and local regulations to ensure safe travel for everyone.
Cycling is a popular activity in Riverside, which is known for its community atmosphere and historical landscape design by Frederick Law Olmsted, the pioneer of landscape architecture, according to the official website. The police department emphasized that Illinois law requires motorists passing bicycles to leave at least three feet of space until they have safely overtaken the cyclist. Bicyclists are also required to follow the same rules as motorists.
For electric bicycle users, Illinois allows low-speed electric or gas-powered bicycles on streets and bike paths if they meet certain criteria: fully functioning pedals, an electric motor under 750 watts or a gas motor producing less than one horsepower, no registration or insurance required, and riders must be at least 16 years old. These vehicles are divided into three classes based on how their motors operate and their maximum speeds.
The department also provided practical safety advice: “Install a front light that is visible for at least 500 feet (night riders), reflectors, and rear taillights for night riding (required by law). Wear bright, reflective clothing.” Cyclists are urged to wear approved helmets properly fitted with straps forming a “V” below the chin. Helmets can reduce head injury risk by up to 85%. Other recommendations include riding with traffic, using hand signals, yielding when necessary, avoiding sidewalk riding except where permitted by ordinance, being predictable on the road, not wearing headphones or using cell phones while biking, and checking tire pressure, brakes, and chains before each ride.
According to Village Ordinance 8-2-23(C), bicycles may be used on public sidewalks within residential districts but must yield to pedestrians and avoid excessive speed. However, bicycles are prohibited from sidewalks in retail business districts as stated in ordinance 8-2-23(B).
Riverside provides municipal services such as fire suppression, emergency medical care, law enforcement—including these safety initiatives—parks programs, and public library access according to the official website. The village has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark since 1970 for its role in national history. It continues to promote cultural awareness through its historical commission and public library programs while aiming to deliver municipal services responsibly in line with its heritage-focused community management approach.
