Dear Editor,
This is in response to recent grievances aired by agitated cyclists regarding the norms at crossroads. I feel obliged to express my opinion on this matter. One of the readers correctly highlighted the fact that indicating your direction doesn’t confer the privilege of way. This aligns with my understanding too. As someone who often rides a bicycle, I wouldn’t hazard overtaking any four-wheeler or heavy vehicle on the left whilst it’s making a turn, in my view, pragmatism naturally prevents this as I’m likely to face adverse consequences.
Contrarily, another reader claims to have little knowledge of any cyclist ignoring traffic regulations and inflicting harm on a motorist, which could be true. However, I am painfully aware of pedestrians who have endured injuries prompted by cyclists violating rules on pathways and at intersections.
Coincidentally, as a pedestrian awaiting my chance to cross at an intersection, I often find myself hesitant while two or three bicyclists trespass the crossroad even when the signal has altered allowing me to proceed. At this point, I must mention that my intuition warns against taking any brash actions knowing that I stand the chance of bearing the brunt of any mishap.
I have successfully navigated the streets of Dublin as both a pedestrian and cyclist into my golden years, and never had a dire incident occur as a result of road traffic. The driving force behind this continued safety is my application of common sense in all situations. I tend not to cross the street, even when faced with a green signal to do so, unless I am absolutely certain that the road traffic has come to a halt. As I’m well aware that it’s not an uncommon sight for vehicles, cyclists and large transport apparatus like buses and trucks, ignoring red signals.
Through my experience as a cyclist, I’ve learnt to avoid taking the risk of overtaking a vehicle that signals a left-hand turn while I cycle in the inside lane. As a motorist, I amalgamate common sense with the regulations to ensure optimal safety and minimal injury to myself and others.
Yours faithfully,
Paddy Hennessy,
Crumlin, Dublin 12.