06-04-2011, 04:38 AM
Both car drivers and bicyclists should re-read the vehicle codes in their states.
I find that, in general, if people would just follow the rules that are already on the books, a lot of these "misunderstandings" wouldn't happen.
Instead, our "rugged individualist" ethos has created a culture of proud rule-breakers on both sides, and no one wants to give an inch.
Here in Berkeley, of course, I find the drivers a little too accommodating. If I properly stop on my bike at a stop sign or light like I'm supposed to, I get dirty looks from drivers who are upset that I don't proceed to break the law (in some situations this would put me in danger) when they "wave me through."
I find that, in general, if people would just follow the rules that are already on the books, a lot of these "misunderstandings" wouldn't happen.
Instead, our "rugged individualist" ethos has created a culture of proud rule-breakers on both sides, and no one wants to give an inch.
Here in Berkeley, of course, I find the drivers a little too accommodating. If I properly stop on my bike at a stop sign or light like I'm supposed to, I get dirty looks from drivers who are upset that I don't proceed to break the law (in some situations this would put me in danger) when they "wave me through."