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could also be doing only what they understand because of a lack of proper cycling education. Even if within the Department of Motor Vehicles handbook, there is a section dedicated to cycling etiquette as to using hand signals, traveling with traffic and so on. The challenge seems to be, that there is to much promotion of getting a vehicle and driving on the roads. Even within the written test for the license there is few if any questions in regard to the section on bicycles. The point being there is little or no cycling education offered, and as a result people just ride it like a toy, like a pedestrian even if it puts them at risk and sets the precedent for drivers of motor vehicles to interpret the bicyclist incorrectly. The same lack of education can also be a part of that particular circumstance.

The solution is quite simple, to offer education to the public at large, to have each individual who is cycle commuting to help make the public aware. Additionally, offering cycling education at a low or reduced price or just as a community service to the public and the bicycle culture can also provide additional understanding and awareness of what is best for the cyclist and the safety of all those considered.

The views certainly vary from one state to the other, just my own experience has been a good one, not without it's down times, with the increase in gas prices more individuals are seeing it as quite a viable option. To ride will save you money, and extend your life. Society today, can only benefit from more individuals riding a bike. Your wallet will thank you and the environment would be improved for the present and the future. There will still be people who do not hold the similar views but as more people ride the views will change, as long as the techniques used in riding, clarify that a bicycle is a vehicle, not just a toy. Certainly not a pedestrian on wheels, it will take a person at a time becoming aware and exercising the right to be treated as a vehicle on the roads throughout the land. We cannot change everyone but one person can make a difference for many by providing the example that will eventually be followed. So get educated, implement that education and make a difference to improve the view on the bicycle as the vehicle it has always been.

Learn more about this author, Ray Marr.
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