Can cyclists and drivers get along in Vancouver?

I am shocked at the acceptance of violent, aggressive force used against another human being (I don’t like it against animals either) [“Alleged road rage attack on Vancouver cyclist caught in photos”, web-only]. This should never happen.

It is quite clear to me who the aggressor is in these photos and I hope he gets help for his anger issues. I don’t like driving or biking in this city as there is so much aggression expressed in the way people use motor vehicles. Even using the crosswalks feels dicey when cars and trucks are inching up on your ankles. I hope this changes. Peace.

> Stephen MacLean / Straight.com

I’m surprised this doesn’t happen more often considering the aggressive, sanctimonious, and overall douche-bag behaviour from a significant minority of cyclists in this town.

> Teth Adam / Straight.com

Comments

2 Comments

G

Feb 5, 2014 at 1:44pm

I have been hit by one car while walking but this week I was hit by 2 cyclists while using crosswalks. One was very apologetic, showed his ID and gave me contact info in the event I was injured: the other kept going until my coffee cup burst on the back of his head as he rode away. That was the incentive he needed to stop and swear before rushing off. Unlike those who believe solely in groups I look upon cyclists as individuals, this week's experience one was nice and the other was a jerk. The same applies to drivers. Unfortunately most of the conditioned herds can only imagine people in groups.

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Bruce

Feb 6, 2014 at 10:24am

"Unlike those who believe solely in groups I look upon cyclists as individuals, this week's experience one was nice and the other was a jerk. The same applies to drivers."

Yes, there are jerks in both modes. But if the first cyclist had been a driver, there would have been no second incident, because you would be in the hospital or dead.

Drivers have a greater responsibility because they are creating far more danger to other road users. It's like second-hand smoke, it is the responsibility of the smoker to not put other people at risk for their choices, not the responsibility of the people around them.

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