Hi David, Lui and others who’ve contributed to this discussion.
I’d like to agree with what’s been said here.
I used to tandem cycle in the Eighties.
When riding on the road I had to trust my partner on the front who had to see
where we were going.
I often feared the closeness of the traffic or abuse from motorists.
That campaign from a few years ago should still aply which said “Share the
road”.
Regards,
Adrian.
From: Lui Palombi
Sent: Friday, October 23, 2015 2:19 PM
To: insightsa@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [insightsa] Cyclists on footpaths
Hi David
Thank you for taking up this most important issue. May I provide some input
as a vision impaired person who rides a bike.
As a cyclist, there are times when the footpath is safer than the road.
This often happens where bike paths are non-existent or there are road works
which force cyclists to share restricted roadway with motorists. However,
the appropriate adjustments are made to speed and behaviour as I consider the
risks to both other users and myself within these situations. I also notice
when cycling on the road, wheelchair and pram users, gofers and even
pedestrians using the roadway at times when the footpaths are unusable, ie
roadworks or construction of homes and other works have blocked access. Often
in these situations, it’s just a matter of using common sense, courtesy and
showing respect for other users.
I would like to suggest a more collaborative approach be taken with a view to
establishing a working relationship between BCA, government and consumer
groups such as Bike SA. Surely all parties can work together and develop a set
of agreed behaviours and rules that ensure the safety of all users.. As a
cyclist living in Victoria, I learnt particular rules when using shared paths;
example when approaching pedestrians from behind, I would announce “bike
passing” . Pedestrians, being alert for such warnings would simply step to
one side. We were taught to always wear bright jackets, reduce speed and
even announce to other cyclists when slowing or stopping. I do the same here
in SA when using Linear Park etc and in my eight years since returning to SA
have not struck any problems. . I am concerned with the speed and behaviour
of some cyclists which you have also correctly identified. This is one reason
why I suggest BCA SA branch consider dialogue with all users with a view to
establishing agreed common rules and behaviours when using shared paths,
including footpaths. Surely there is room for all.
Regards
Lui
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