It’s against the law and endangers motorcyclists and bicyclists
TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
Residents are reminded that mowing or blowing grass or leaves or any debris into streets or roads is against City of Merrill Ordinance Section 32-94.
While many residents might think, “Well, the street sweeper will clean it up,” what they may not think about is that it creates a hazard for those operating motorcycles and bicycles. Grass, leaves, and other debris becomes slippery, especially when wet.
Even when not wet from rain, freshly cut grass is 85% water, so it is slick.
While most four-wheel vehicles may not feel the slip, two-wheel vehicles like motorcycles and bicycles can lose control when one or both wheels slip, causing accidents and serious injuries.
Any substance between tires and the road surface causes tires to lose traction, and that can cause drivers to lose control. Sources say that for motorcyclists, driving over fresh cut grass can be as dangerous as driving into an oil slick.
On May 2, 2022, the City of Merrill Street and Weed Commissioner, Ronald R. Liberty, issued a public notice citing the ordinance, among other things.
The ordinance states: “It shall be unlawful for any person to deposit, or cause to be deposited, dumped, sorted, scattered or left any rubbish, stone, wire, earth, ashes, cinders, sawdust, hay, glass, manure, filth, paper, snow, ice, dirt, grass, leaves, construction waste, garbage or other offensive or noxious material in any public street, sidewalk, alley, or upon any public property.”