Cyclists: Stopping on Red/ a political statement?

9/14/2010

Many cities are putting in new cycling facilities-- successfully attracting new riders.

Our image among the cycling community is one of "rogue" users. As I think about all the things that cyclists can do to improve our image-- stopping at a red light seems the most visible and by extension the most powerful.

Here's a radical proposition-- for those on the fence about stopping at Reds-- consider that the best time to stop at a red is when there are the most people watching you. The synergy there is that you are making a statement to the broadest possible audience. Furthermore, stopping just might encourage a few other cyclists to stop-- increasing the image of cyclists being nice.

I look forward to your thoughts!

Bill David

8/18/2012 12:49:22 pm

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.

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Cyclists: Stopping on Red/ a political statement?

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