By Pico Triano
Photo: Free Use Image, Pico Triano
One of the biggest beefs motor vehicle operators hold against cyclist, is the scofflaws who ride through stops signs or worse traffic lights. They have other beefs as well but this one is at least based on reality. I have been places where it seemed like every cyclist I saw simply ignored any and all traffic signs and signals.
I do not condone breaking traffic laws when riding a bicycle. They were created for the safety of the public. I think all cyclists should be supportive of the laws that were design to keep everyone safe. If you come across a stop sign, please stop like you're supposed to.
That being said, I don't believe the problem is nearly as bad as a lot of motorists make it out to be. A lot of them believe that a bicycle cannot really be stopped unless the rider puts his feet on the ground. That is false. A lot riders will balance at a stop sign or light until it is safe to go. It is a skill that is worth learning. I do it sometimes.
Cars and trucks come to rolling stops as well. That doesn't make it right, but the fact is, it isn't just cyclists misbehaving. A lot of people I hear complaining about cyclists not stopping don't stop themselves. A clear case of the pot calling the kettle black. The roads would be a safer place for everyone if we followed the rules.
I don't feel sorry for cyclists that get a ticket for ignoring the rules of the road any more than I feel sorry for motorists doing the same thing.
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