The reason I ask this question is because just today I have seen so many bicyclists who for whatever reason are not complying with the rules.
Yes, of course, I believe that Bikes Belong and that cyclists have the same rights on the road as automobiles. However, we cyclists have the same obligations to follow the rules as does the driver of the automobile.
I have seen people riding their bikes the wrong way on a one way street. Not only against the rules, but very dangerous. I have seen riders ‘blow” stop signs. Not only against the rules, but very dangerous. I have seen riders cross busy roads and highways against the light. Not only against the rules, but very dangerous. I have seen groups of riders taking up half the road. Not only against the rules, but very dangerous. I have seen numerous other actions by cyclists that are against the rules and very dangerous.
No matter how much you ride, you should know all of the rules. Get a copy of “Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road” today.
And, while I am on my soapbox, let me express a few thoughts regarding aggressive motorists. I hear this complaint from bicyclists all the time. A critical question might be, “What are the factors that create aggressive motorists?
My personal feeling, as I have expressed in this column before, is that the advertising industry should take a large part of the blame. TV and magazine ads for new cars encourage aggressive driving, (at least in my view), and are likely to kill any number of cyclists as a result.
In any case, if you would like to avoid being this type of aggressive driver, you need to get a copy of the “Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road”. If we all know the rules, we can easily and safely share the road.
[If you would like to participate in this column, simply visit my blog and send me an email, and cover the topic, “I rode my bike to.” It can cover a ride to the grocery store, a ride to
