It has come to my attention that cyclists in Victoria are not abiding by the same laws that motor vehicle drivers do. This is a list of infractions that I've noticed and some ideas that others have shared with me on how to deal with this proportion of violators (this list is not exhaustive). There may only be a small percentage ie 5-10% just as there are a small percentage of drivers that are reckless. But both parties need and should be held accountable per B.C. road laws.
Cyclist infractions: No signalling; no helmets, lights, etc. not utilizing bike lanes; not adhering to the new 40 km/h zones, 30 km/h school zones; blowing through stop signs, intersections (California stops don't count); large groups thinking they are a peloton on all roads especially local suburban roads riding 2,3,4 abreast and a lack of etiquette to go single file when cars approach from behind. It is illegal in B.C. to ride two abreast; drafting behind cars/trucks/buses; entitlement to roads (forgetting to share with motor vehicles and pedestrians); any derogatory reaction.
Bike Shops: Educate and promote to each customer if they believe they have equal rights to roads – they have to follow B.C. motor vehicle laws; written info to each new bike sold, most effective would be reminders on your retail social media posts. Retailers will benefit from increased sales of helmets, lights, bright jerseys, etc.
Police: Enforce laws. If motor vehicle drivers are subject to tickets, it must apply to all cyclists. I have spoken to Saanich and Oak Bay officers and they are frustrated. $120 tickets do not deter cyclists. Pick any intersection along Beach Drive, Cadboro Bay, Cordova Bay, Sidney, etc. – it's easy to see a high percentage of infractions.
Politicians: Increase fines from $120 for multiple infractions (same as drivers); for extreme offenders, impound bikes; potential registration of all cyclists; mandatory third party liability (if a pedestrian gets hit who assists with their rehab costs and loss of income?) Return to 50 km/h and 30 km/h school zones. Bike lanes certainly have contributed to increased traffic congestion, narrow roads, single lanes, no parking, confusion, cyclist entitlement. Bike lanes will not reduce vehicles drastically (the weather is not conducive for families from September to May). Decreased productivity and efficiency.
This is a start. I don't believe this behaviour is specific to Victoria.
Jeremy King
Saanich
