Let’s make our roads safer for all

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Let’s make our roads safer for all

Saturday, August 25, 2012

Re: Cyclists can be a hazard, Aug 21 letter.

Alf Turner and others reckon cyclists on roads are a hazard. Maybe it is true some are but the same could be said for many inconsiderate motorists.

Our highways and byways exist for all, not only motorists.

Apart from big crashes, car-to-car scrapes and grazes are dealt with by panel beaters and insurance companies. But for cyclists, brushes with motorised vehicles mean a visit to the hospital or undertaker.

I come from bygone days when roads were safer and motorists fewer, more wary, more considerate, and prepared to stop if need be.

Cyclists were deemed legitimate road users and respected by most motorists. It was even considered safe for cyclists to venture on road tours with pup tents and camping gear. Been there, done that. Unlike present times.

At no time on my past cycling journeys can I ever recall being abused by motorists — only greetings and friendly waves of encouragement — although once I was given some helpful advice by local AA patrolman Scotty.

Why have attitudes changed so?

It was the custom in earlier times on country roads and highways to drive so that stopping was possible at half the see-able distance ahead (in case of slow traffic, cyclists, stock, or other). But now it is flat-tack gambling on the coast being clear, and hard luck if anything gets in the way.

I anticipate a near-future resurgence of cycling for reasons I won’t mention now.

To all that use our roads, I again call for an attitude change so we can achieve safer streets for all road users.

BOB HUGHES

Comments

Jim Wright

08:40 p.m. Saturday, Aug 25, 2012

Good one Bob. Summer is on the way mate and we'll all be out there on our bikes.
Very bright colours and lights need to be brought home to a lot of people on bikes.
Even car users need to look at having their lights on even during the day, like some overseas countries.
Jim

Peter Jones

06:36 p.m. Saturday, Aug 25, 2012

Having already chronicled my unfortunate and lifetransforming car accident, I must add that while I have bought a bike I am frankly too scared to use it because of the danger I perceive to my trusty hip replacement.
One bump from a car and I fear I may never walk again.

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