After reading Herbert Thrift's letter regarding the two kids on bikes
who were ticketed for not wearing helmets, I am compelled to add my own
comments. ("Active Policing is Burbank's pride," April 15).
Mr. Thrift states "the intersection in question (Olive and Pass
avenue) is definitely not the place for 11-year-olds to be riding
bicycles." I understand he means well, but he is wrong!
Generally speaking, bikes are prohibited from freeways and sidewalks.
Those of us who cycle for transportation and/or recreation know that due
to obstacles (freeways, flood control channels, hospitals, large studio
complexes, etc.) dangerous roads and intersections often cannot be
avoided. Assuming that, aside from the missing helmets, the boys were
riding responsibly and obeying traffic laws, they had every right to be
there. Motorists who make it unsafe to walk or bicycle are the ones who
shouldn't be there.
The real question is: Why are so many ignorant, incompetent,
inattentive, oblivious-to-cyclist-and-pedestrian drivers allowed on our
roads?
A database should be established where non-motorized street denizens
can report drivers who have endangered them. Three strikes and the
offender would be sent for safety training. No points, no fines, just
education.
Subjects to be taught: how to safely overtake a cyclist and not to
make a right turn immediately after doing so; how to safely enter and
exit a car or merge into traffic when parked curbside; when traveling in
a bike lane is allowable (not for passing); not to apex right curves when
alongside a cyclist; how to stop for pedestrians who are crossing
legally; how to cross the sidewalk without hitting pedestrians; why one
must stop at the limit line; when and why cyclists are legally allowed to
take an entire lane, and many more.
RHONDA LEVINE
Burbank
