Bike lanes better for all road users

Re: “Cyclists, drivers must learn to coexist,” column, July 6. In the ongoing discussions of how different road users can co-exist peacefully, we hear a lot of anecdotes. Here are some facts to consider:

Urban Systems analyzed ICBC crash data from 2007 to 2012 for the city of Vancouver. There were 2,994 crashes between cars and bicycles, representing one per cent of all reported motor-vehicle collisions. We talk so much about the conflicts between cars and bikes on the road, yet they represent a minuscule percentage of total collisions.

ICBC determined the right of way in about half these crashes. Cyclists had right of way 93 per cent of the time. So when blame could be assigned, the motor-vehicle operator was at fault 1,400 times out of the 1,500.

All road users have a responsibility to be aware of their surroundings and act appropriately. That onus is, however, far greater on motor-vehicle users, as they are operating machinery with the ability to inflict great damage on persons and property when used improperly.

The best solution to reducing driver/cyclist conflict is to build highquality cycling infrastructure, including protected bike lanes. Cities that do, such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, boast the highest percentage of trips by bike and the lowest fatality rate per kilometre travelled (despite no mandated helmet use). They provide predictability for all road users. Edward Pullman President, Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition