Submitted by Kevin S., Feb 7, 2007 01:25

Pedestrian and bicyclist safety can certainly be improved, as can vehicular safety. Unfortunately, as much of the responsibility lies with the pedestrian and bicyclist. I live in Manhattan and walk the majority of the time and drive about 2 or 3 times a month, so I see both sides of the issue. From a driver standpoint, the pedesitrians need to realize that they are in as good a position to view the vehicles as the vehicles are of them--perhaps even more so. Disobeying the law--i.e., stepping into the crosswalk on flashing or steady DON'T WALK, or waiting in the street making it difficult for the average car or bus to safely turn the corner on a green--only adds to the problem all around for both pedestrians and motorists. Pedestrians who inattentively mosey across the street in their own little bubble while talking on the cell phone, listening to their MP3 player, or typing a text message are some of biggest contributors to the problem.
From a pedestrian standpoint, my interaction with bicycles has not always been so positive. Bicyclists often do not use the designated bike lane when provided and frequently travel the wrong way down one-way streets. Learning to look both ways before crossing is not just for second graders anymore. Traffic signals seem to be optional for bicyclists as well. Bicycles are vehicles and the traffic laws apply to bicyclists as well. I try to practice some simple courtesy regardless of my mode of travel: while driving, I certainly yield to the pedestrian that is legally in the crosswalk; as a pedestrian, if only one car is waiting to turn and I have the right of way, I will wave him on so he doesn't block the cars behind him. Often, the driver will reciprocate and wave me on instead of proceeding. I'm not some idealist that thinks I can have tunnel vision because the Yield to Peds law will actually bring a vehicle to a screeching halt the moment I step off the curb.
Ultimately, we need to realize that everyone is using the streets--vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Unfortunately, the advocates for one group or the other tend to argue only their side of the issue rather than accept and respect the fact that we all need to interact together. Placing all the blame on the evil, polluting motorist due to the victimized pedestrian and bicyclist is unrealistic and ignores pedestrian and bicycle safety just as much as anyting else does. Victims are often created by their own actions. A little courtesy, a little more awareness, and looking out for ones own safety certainly couldn't hurt the situation.

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