Safety of Bicyclists Is Two-Way Street
Richard Beene’s article “Cycles of Death” (Sept. 1) is probably accurate as to some automobile drivers but is pure fiction as to the cyclists he describes. I suggest cycle deaths are not so much caused by careless drivers as by rude, obnoxious cyclists who seem to think they are pedestrians on wheels and have the right of way over everyone.
Bike lanes are ignored in favor of riding three or four abreast in traffic lanes, bringing traffic to a halt, to give the impression they are a club. Running stop signs and traffic lights is the norm as is riding on the sidewalk, causing pedestrians to scurry for safety. Cyclists must obey the Vehicle Code in California but they apparently do not know this.
Black tights for night riding are de rigueur and lights are a sign of the novice. Riding on the wrong side of the street is designed to dazzle the poor motorist backing out of his driveway or making a right turn. Pity the poor motorist who toots his horn to warn of his presence to a cyclist. He is met with obscenities and the finger to remind him that cyclists are exempt from the law.
Even worse is to see toddlers strapped to seats behind this new breed of daredevils. This is child abuse if I ever saw it.
I will say one thing for the recreational riders--they make great organ donors.
BRUCE M. STARK
Long Beach
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