By Mike Dunn

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – City Council approved and sent to the mayor an overhaul of the Philadelphia traffic code and the head of a local bicyclists group says it’s time for everyone to pay heed, including cyclists.

Council gave final approval to a package of changes to the traffic code that he dubbed “Complete Streets” dealing with the sometimes dangerous clash of drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians.

The bill gives new protections to bicyclists, but it also increases the penalties that they would face for infractions like riding on the sidewalks.
Alex Doty of the Bicycle Coalition said he hopes all bicyclists will cooperate.

“We speak strongly in support of people following the rules of the road. And that means bicyclists should not be on the sidewalk. And that means bicyclists should not be running red lights. It also means cars should not be running red lights,” Doty says.

Drivers will face penalties for opening the door after parking while cars or bicycles are passing by or for parking in a bicycle lane. The measure now goes to the Mayor and his signature is expected.