Some highlights from the Plan, which is a little dry (and has an unfortunate habit of saying things like "VDOT has made tremendous strides in establishing policies that address the needs of bicyclists." Which might be true, but still comes off as bragging.)
- Goals: Increase the use of bicycling in Virginia to include a full and diverse range of the population for all trip purposes; and improve safety and comfort of bicyclists throughout Virginia, reduce bicycle crashes.
- According to the 2000 U.S. Census, in Arlington County, 12.4 percent of households have no motor vehicle
- "the likelihood of a motor vehicle driver being responsible is greater for crashes involving adult bicyclists."
- "For motorists, failure to yield is the most common cause [of crashes] while for bicyclists, failure to yield, stop sign violations, and riding against traffic are the most common causes."
Yes, after nearly 1,250 commute miles this season on my bike (VA/DC), I agree with the cautionary points. Auto drivers (and I am one on occasion), often fail to yield because they are not paying attention (texting or just oblivious). However, I also witness cyclists taking too much risk by blowing through lights and signs and trying to signal. Be good bike ambassadors. Follow the rules and don't be timid by politely (as much as possible) pointing out infractions to auto drivers.
Posted by: Scout03 | October 27, 2011 at 10:18 AM
vdot = genius.
jeff would probably be on board with such sweeping vdot insights...he seems to appreciate a strong stand on neutrality...
Posted by: who's jeff?... | October 27, 2011 at 11:30 AM
This is a final document? as opposed to one that is out there for comment?
Posted by: Wilbur | October 27, 2011 at 01:22 PM
For bike-car collisions, there is only a single most common fault of drivers, but there are three most common faults for cyclist. The impression is that cyclists are more at fault, when most statistics show the opposite. Sneaky!
Posted by: sje | October 27, 2011 at 03:50 PM