What’s our bicycle “social contract?”

Heather Higgins's picture
Submitted by Heather Higgins on Tue, 03/29/2011 - 19:38

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Advocacy

An advocacy group in the DC metro area, Greater Greater Washington, asks the question “What’s our bicycle ‘social contract?’”With the frequent calls for cyclists to “start behaving,” it’s clear that a number of people driving and walking are unsettled by the conduct of at least some people on bikes.  But people in cars speed all the time, and people walking cross against the light, and neither generates as many newspaper letters to the editor.  What’s the difference?The authors review several maneuvers cyclists use at intersections: The Idaho Stop, blowing through an intersection, the “C” maneuver, riding in the middle of the lane (otherwise known as “taking the lane”), jumping the queue when it’s not really necessary, and jumping the queue when there are a lot of cars waiting.And they asked “What other bicycle behaviors should be part of the ideal “social contract” that will allow people on foot, on bikes, and in cars to coexist peacefully, knowing what the others are likely to do and not do?”Let us know!  We’re interested in developing an aspirational code of conduct for roadway users that clarifies expectations for law-abiding safety and mutual consideration.  What are the norms you’d like to see for cyclists, motorists, pedestrians?

Image Caption 

The C Maneuver