And in reference to the above article about London, this reader states that cyclists should not have equal rights as automobiles, but actually MORE rights.
Again, before there's war, it's better to separate.
Velorution in the mind The Financial Times has a worthy but dull article on the resurgence of urban cycling in the UK, with a focus on London. It cannot escape from the cliche' of the number of people riding through red lights; it is like if every article about digital photography mentioned people taking illegal pictures at museums. Of course figures of injuries caused by riding through red lights are never offered.
The torpor in the journalist's mind is evident in the last few paragraphs:
There's no doubt that car drivers need to clean up their act. Taking speed limits down to 20mph in built-up areas will make the roads safer for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike. Enforcing the ban on mobile phone use will help drivers become more attentive. And applying the Highway Code more strictly will make many people think twice about engaging in the current bully-boy hierarchy of bigger is better.
But cyclists need to perk up too. Running red lights and bouncing up on to the pavement is unlikely to improve conditions either for them or motorists. More cyclists obeying the rules and showing that they are just like other road users is a far more attractive and safer prospect.
Cycling can transform congested cities - just look at Amsterdam. The trick is to show everyone else that cyclists are legitimate road users. And then we can properly celebrate those who choose a means of transport that really does benefit us all.
Now, saying that motor vehicles should have the same rights as pedestrians or cyclists is like saying that water skiers should be allowed on all waters in front of a popular beach. The Highway Code by instigating this non-sensical equality status, that inevitably leads to the law of the jungle, is bunk. It has the same moral standing as the South African Pbutt Law.
It is not abiding to rules that we should exhort, but consideration to all other people and especially to those who are more vulnerable than ourselves. Yes there are definitely inconsiderate bicycle riders in London, and it is absolutely no excuse to say, 'It is a jungle out there, I need to defend my self'. We need to raise the level of social responsibility, starting by ourselves. The roads are a commons to be enjoyed by everyone, starting by people on foot. Then the greater or more dangerous the vehicle one chooses to use, the fewer rights one has and the more consideration one needs to give to more vulnerable people.
