Share the Speed Limit

There is a reason why the California Drivers Handbook emphasizes the importance of motorists keeping up with the flow of traffic. Unusual differences in the speed of vehicles operating in close proximity increase the odds of mishaps and multiply their negative consequences. If it is necessary for the safe passage of motorized traffic for drivers to keep up with the flow of traffic – which, of course, it is – then it must follow that it is even more essential for cyclists (who are not protected by seat belts, air bags or energy-absorbing crash cages) to also keep up with the flow of traffic. But the very nature of these tiny, fragile, slow moving (and even slower accelerating) vehicles makes this impossible.  If a motorist operated his or her vehicle in the same manner as the average, responsible cyclist (let alone the numerous reckless and lawless ones), he or she could be cited for CVC Section 22400(a) minimum speed, impeding normal flow of traffic – and rightly so. The bottom line here is that it is physically impossible for cyclists not to impede the normal flow of traffic and that fact alone should have long ago been recognized and dealt with.  If you want to share the road…..then you that ride bicycles on roads need to share the speed limit.  Go the speed limit or get off the roads.

Middle Ground?

Like many difficult social conflicts in society, this issue cannot be resolved with draconian methods. Instead, I believe we can achieve significant improvements simply by increasing awareness and enforcement. For example, in high traffic narrow roads, cyclists who refuse to yield to faster traffic at turn outs should be fined on the grounds of impediment of traffic. Likewise, motorists who make unsafe passes around cyclists should be fined for unsafe passing. Signage that reminds motorists and cyclists alike of their individual responsibilities and repercussions should be posted along problem routes. Minors who ride roads without bike lanes are the responsibility of the adult guardian or the group leader. There are enough low-hanging fruits within reach. We don’t have to go for broke here.  This came to me from an avid cyclist.  Thoughts?