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How do we build a tradition of bike, pedestrian and handicap accessibility where one has never existed?
As environmental writer Elisabeth Rosenthal has noted, it is as much about attitude as it is infrastructure. And attitudes can’t change unless our understanding of the issue changes.
Let’s start with what the law requires and a few common sense notes. A bicycle is considered a vehicle and is entitled to be on all roads, with the exception of limited access highways. As such, drivers are obligated to treat bikes like a slow moving car.
For their part, bicyclists should try to keep to the right and may prefer the shoulder when a wide enough one exists.
Cyclists may not ride more than two-abreast and should try to ride single file in heavier traffic. But bicyclists may ride in the middle of the lane when safety issues make that advisable (as would be the case when there is not enough room for an auto to pass them by).
As to passing a bike, state law now requires that drivers give at least four feet between the car and the bike. Even though I’m diligent about keeping right, I’m illegally buzzed several times each week by drivers who are either incredibly impatient or oblivious to how close they have come to the bike.
This happens most often when someone tries to pass a cyclist instead of waiting the few seconds it takes for oncoming traffic to clear. It is rare that one has to wait more than six or eight seconds for the car going the other way to pass, providing a fully clear lane to go around the bicycle.
Cyclists should look for the route that presents the fewest road hazards of all sorts — not just crazed drivers, but narrow (or no) shoulders, dangerous storm grates, and uneven surfaces.
Like most cyclists, I hate traffic and will do everything I can to avoid it. There are some roads I never ride on. When a busy road is unavoidable, I look for the least of the evils which will get me there in one piece.
When I find lightly traveled roads and streets or ones with generous berms, I take them, even when they add a few miles onto the trip. But sometimes it’s tough to get there from here.
This is where infrastructure improvements would make all the difference in the world. We noted last time that the Altoona metro area is rated at the very bottom of similar Pennsylvania communities, despite the verbal support shown for better accessibility.
Decision makers at all levels, including local and county government, must see non-auto transportation as a vital tool in moving us from one place to another.
Their policies and practices must be reflected in seemingly minor issues (like maintenance of the road edge, where cyclists most often ride), as well as the big picture issues (like the development of an extensive trail system).
Those maintaining the road, or entry ways accessing the road, need to think about exactly how a cyclist, pedestrian or wheelchair will negotiate the road or entry safely.
A new tradition can be built upon a safe and amicable coexistence, saving both the planet and the lives of those trying to reduce their footprint on it.
John Frederick (www.johnjfrederick.com) writes about environmental issues.