I have missed the debate going on about cycling safety and sharing the road that has emerged in the blogosphere this past week. As an avid cyclist, I am glad to see this debate gain more attention, as I feel it is very important.

Ezra Klein has linked some excellent posts that show how the debate is evolving, but the disturbing part is the comments on these blogs. So many people believe that cyclists have no right on the road, so that gives motorists carte blanche to do what they want to them. To those people – you are so wrong.

In most states, cyclists enjoy the same laws as motorists. There are those foolish cyclists that don’t follow the laws, but there are also drivers who ignore the laws of the road. That means the people trying to blame it all on the “crazy cyclists” or kids on bikes, should also point the finger to the idiotic driver behind the wheel of a car.

There’s also debate the cyclists don’t get the same use of the roads, because we don’t pay taxes. Damn – I want a refund! This has to be the poorest argument I have ever heard. By that same logic, semi drivers should be allowed to do whatever they want, even if that means running soccer mom and the kids off the road so the semi can make it’s delivery. After all, truck drivers pay the most in taxes when it comes to the road.

What we need is a national movement to better educate drivers and cyclists on how to share the road. America is way behind the rest of the world in cycling, but with some determination and direction we could catch up. Drivers need to learn that they share the road with cyclists, just like cyclists must obey the laws of the road. I love seeing drivers get tickets, but I actually enjoy seeing cyclists get them more. It shows the cyclist, as well as the passing motorists, that there are laws to help protect cyclists. If a cyclist ignores the laws, then they do deserve that ticket.

Finally, being a cyclist I enjoy better health now, as well as save a lot on gas. That short trip down to the store to pick up a loaf of bread costs a lot in the car, but it doesn’t cost me anything on my bike (yes – the short, in-town car trips are the most expensive). The other benefit is if you want to really get to know the area you live in. You will be amazed at the things you never notice in the car. Get out on your bike and see your town, and you will gain a new perspective on it.