Civil Streets!

I endorse your comments.

I have been a year-round bicycle commuter for over 20 years. I rarely use a car. Although I am firmly in the cycling camp, I am sad to admit that the cycling community is largely at fault for the animosity that has developed on the streets. The majority of cyclists do not obey traffic laws; I witness this daily.

There is never a justification for running a red light, or a stop sign. If cyclists expect to enjoy the privilege of riding on the streets, then they should obey the laws.

There are many reasons for respecting the law.

The first is safety. The laws are designed to protect.

The second is respect: Laws are also designed to maintain order. Respecting the law is a way of showing respect for each other. If cyclists obey the law and thereby demonstrate respect for motorists, this respect is often returned. That has been my experience. If cyclists feel entitled to the respect of motorists, then they must demonstrate respect for motorists. Stopping at stop signs and red light is one way to do this.

It is all about safety and respect.

And the bottom line: it is the law.

As cyclists, we hope that the community, and the voting blocks, will endorse favorable bicycle legislation....bike sharing programs, expanded bicycle lanes, new bike trails. But when cyclists disobey the law, we undermine our own credibility with the community.

We must respect each other. It is in our own best interest.