9/9/2002: Bad policing

[Griff]

Originally posted by Tobiasly

I agree with most of what you're saying, but this statement makes it sound like bicyclists have an inherent right to ride on the streets and have their own special bike lanes. That is not the case. Providing such amenities to bicyclists isn't one of those instances of protecting minority groups that the government has an obligation to fulfill.

They believe they have a right to travel. I think the push behind this is a fundemental disagreement about who can be on the roads. Many car drivers go out of their way to stick it to cyclists because they don't know that bikes are legal vehicles most places. Some honestly don't see bikes, they aren't looking for them and they're suprised we can ride at traffic pace in town. But it can be a chicken and the egg deal. Is the driver on a payback vendetta for all those cyclists who disregard for traffic law?

What is needed are cooler heads. A "wuss" CM should be able to help in that regard, showing that many folks want to ride and if they are following the traffic laws the presence of police gives them credibility. The book I referred to earlier was written by a one-time bike messenger who had complete disregard for traffic law due to the time pressures of his job. Folks that just want to commute have little in common with the messengers as warch noted.

There is a self-righteous streak at play as well, where some cyclists think they have more rights than drivers cuz they're greener. Its a respect problem in both directions.