As bike sharing becomes more common throughout Seattle, the number of hazards increase.

Over 4,000 bikes have been strewn across Seattle neighborhoods for every-day use. Run by three different companies, price of rentals varies between one to two dollars an hour. Payments and bike codes are communicated through smartphone apps, making it easy for public use.

With the number of cyclists in Seattle increasing, roads and trails are becoming more crowded.

The number of inexperienced cyclists on the road has also increased which creates more potential for confusion between bikers and those they encounter. For those who are more new to biking, researching vehicle and bicycle laws before going for a spin in highly recommended.

As the number of bikers continues to fluctuate, drivers should also be more aware of their surroundings. You never know how much experience those who share the road with you have.

Drivers already complain about bikers’ habits. Are they vehicles or pedestrians? As more confusion arises, cyclists need to be more stringent in following the rules of the road. If riding in the street, bikers should obey the same rules set for cars. Stopping where designated and not weaving between cars prove to be evident suggestions.

Not everyone is used to the responsibility that comes with riding a bicycle. LimeBikes, Spins, and ofos can be found not just in people’s yards, but in the middle of trails. My dad had to stop and move bikes off the Burke-Gilman into bushes to prevent potential crashes from occurring. Such users who do not take the responsibility of finding a proper place for their mode of transportation create obstructions that could lead to future harm.

More bikers are also riding without helmets, something that the companies do not rent. Doing so is technically illegal, and the is law meant to protect individuals’ safety.

Those who use biking as their mode of transportation are greatly appreciated for reducing emissions, and thus helping the environment, but they need to do so responsibly.