Cyclists responsible for their own safety
Burry Stander’s premature death has touched many, and my condolences go to his family and friends. I do hope, though, that something positive comes out of this tragedy, in that the bicycle fraternity wakes up and takes responsibility for their actions.
The lesson learned will have to be that a bicycle is no match for any motorised vehicle. The inevitable outcome of a head-on collision with a car or truck and a bicycle is a no- brainer.
Alas, I doubt that the majority of these pedal-power kamikaze pilots – arrogant, self-important, egotistical, and brimming with delusions of grandeur – would actually take heed.
The mind boggles that more cyclists are not killed on our roads, the way they conduct themselves, riding three, four, sometimes five abreast with little or no regard for licensed, toll-paying road users.
I already hear the moaning: ‘We have as much right on the roads… blah-blah-blah!’ Drivers, don’t you dare hoot or take evasive action, putting your own life at risk while trying to avoid these two-wheeled self-powered Christmas trees.
You can rant as much as you like, but you are only harming yourself with this behaviour. Get off the tar! There are more than enough off-road, safe places to practise your sport.
Mind you, if you ride in the bush, no one will be able to appreciate how much money you’ve spent on your bike and that ridiculous day-glow spandex attire you so like showing off to the world.
Please be safe out there, people!
Raymoend Parker, by email
Source: CXpress