Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Cyclists V Pedestrians - Who is to blame?

Welcome to the first post on the new blog Cycling V Pedestrian.

Everyone, or most sensible people I should say, seem to understand that by law (at least in New York City) pedestrians have the right of way. However, the tension between cyclists and pedestrians in NYC is mounting like summer garbage piles daily. As the city continues to try and modernize and separate traffic, the inability for either side to agree on right of way, much less act in a uniform manner amongst their own pedal kind, means that the battle is on. Who should win? Is there a compromise? Who is right? Who is wrong?

Just because you are a pedestrian and jaywalking from in between cars does not mean you have the right of way. You will get hit... it's just a matter of time. Know that.

Just because you are a delivery person does not mean you can ride against traffic and the wrong way in a bike lane. You will get hit... it's just a matter of time as well.

Should we just let Darwin handle this dilemma? Are campaigns such as "Biking Rules" from Transportation Alternatives working?

How does New York City handle the growing number of cyclists, enraged drivers, and pedestrians that rival Helen Keller in awareness to their surroundings?

Do you have a story? Comment? What do you think should be done? Leave a comment.