Cycling Information Center

 Harassment Ordinance: Civility on the Road

On June 15, 2009 the Columbia City Council enacted a City ordinance to prohibit harassment of bicyclists.  Sec. 16-145 of the City Code is now in effect. 

It addresses specific, prohibited acts such as throwing objects at a cyclist, honking to frighten and other threatening behaviors.  It gives Columbia Police explicit powers to investigate reports of harassment and to bring charges, if appropriate.

Some of the elements also are covered in under Sec. 16-141, Columbia’s assault ordinance.  The assault ordinance requires either physical contact or placing another person in fear of immediate physical injury.  The harassment ordinance, however, includes new, specific elements not covered elsewhere.

Several of the questions frequently asked in the community are addressed below.  For more information, contact the Columbia Police Department at 573-874-7652. 

To file a complaint, call 573-874-7652 (automated phone menu) or 573-442-6131.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who does the ordinance apply to?
It applies to anyone.  This includes not just motorists, but any “person” who knowingly engages in prohibited acts.

What acts are prohibited?
Harassment of a bicyclist includes:

• Knowingly throwing an object at or in the direction of any person riding a bicycle;
• Threatening any person riding a bicycle for the purpose of frightening or disturbing the cyclist;
• Sounding a horn, shouting or otherwise directing sound toward any cyclist to frighten or disturb the rider;
• Knowingly placing a person riding a bicycle in apprehension of immediate physical injury; or
• Knowingly engaging in conduct that creates a risk of death or serious physical injury to a cyclist.

Harassment of a bicyclist is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 12 months’ imprisonment.

What do Police do when they receive an allegation of harassment?
Credible complaints are followed up in the same way as other allegations against individuals, including motorists.  If appropriate, misdemeanor charges may be brought against the driver of the vehicle or other person involved in the complaint.

What should motorists and others remember?  Do they break the law if they honk to sound a warning?
Innocent use of the horn or voice to communicate with a cyclist in a non-threatening way (for example, to warn that a vehicle is passing) is not an offense.  Motorists, especially, should remember that a vehicle is likely to inflict damage when it comes into contact with a person or another object.

What should bicyclists remember?  Do traffic laws apply to them?
As users of public roadways, cyclists must comply with the same traffic laws as motorists.  This includes City ordinances and state traffic laws. 

Columbia Police, GetAbout Columbia and PedNet Coalition, Inc. cooperatively conduct training that aids enforcement of traffic violations committed by cyclists and motorists.  “Operation Share the Road” was first held in October 2008.  Additional training will be scheduled.

Be civil.  Be smart

• Cyclists, motorists and others have responsibilities and rights while using public roads.
• Get familiar with traffic regulations, and obey them.
• If you file a complaint, get as much specific information as possible to help Columbia Police investigate and bring charges.

Links

• PedNet.org
• Bicycle Licensing
• City Council Meeting Minutes - June 15, 2009
• State Motor Vehicle Information
• MODOT – Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
• City Code: See Ch. 14, Article VII – Cycling