The Relationship Between Cyclists and Drivers

For centuries we humans have been looking for better and more efficient ways to get from point A to point B. Our present day is no exception to that fact, before the question was how to get more of an automated way to get around (i.e. cars). Now, the question in the transportation industry has shifted to: how can we keep the great qualities we all love about cars while looking for a more renewable source to power our cars that is safer to use in them. The one transportation method that has consistently stood the test of time is cycling. Cycling is a great form of transportation that is much less costly than automobiles and a lot faster than walking. It is also a great way to exercise. The only problems I see with this mode of transportation is that there isn’t enough infrastructure for travel outside of cities and the safety issues that go along with sharing the roads with cars who have no regard for them. This relationship is a huge barrier keeping people from treating cycling as a serious way to commute as they do in other countries in Europe. In these countries, drivers are used to seeing cyclists on the roads and are more mindful of them when on the roads, even if they don’t have the infrastructure to accommodate both parties. I feel as though we need to not only create the infrastructure but also make drivers more courteous and mindful of bikers. Then, once people become more accustomed to seeing bikes and see how much safer it has become, we can be like European countries and have cycling become a good consistent alternative for commuters to take as opposed to driving everyday.