Why are cyclists so hated by motorists in the UK?

[B_Ugli]

I tried to work out the other day why motorists dont possess the same degree of hate towards horseriders, motorcyclists, tractors, campervans & caravans, horse & carts and any other thing on the road that my hinder their progress. Unfortunately I couldnt.

In fact it got me thinking that if any other group were held in such low regard for no apparent reason there would be uproar.

What do others think?

 

[Captain_Cavman]

It saddens me that all drivers are in effect aware of Taylor v Goodwin 1879 and know that Bicycles should not be on the footway. But they don't reach the obvious conclusion that this same law means that Bicycles are legally a carriage and should be treated as any other vehicle on the road.

It's wilful ignorance.

 

[B_Ugli]

I think that I struggle with the mentality behind it:

Driver behind a tractor. I will have to wait until its safe to pass
Driver behind a caravan. A bit annoying I will have to wait until its safe to pass
Driver behind some horses. I will drive very slowly and wait till I have loads of room before passing very carefully
Driver behind cyclists. Why are they holding me up they shoulnt be there, they are slowing me down, I will rev my engine and drive past as close as I can to scare them and show them I am the boss.

 

[Dalakhani]

An England rugby player expressed his hatred of cyclists a couple of months ago and provoked the following reply from Mark Cavendish:

@MarkCavendish All cyclists? That's a bit of an ignorant comment, no? #ihavegotmanycarsthankstoridingmybike RT @dannycare I hate Cyclists!!!!! #getacar

I remember thinking that,

(a) Comments like these put cyclists lives in danger because they encourage idiots to treat us as people who don't belong on "their roads".

(b) If it were any other group than cyclists, expressing hatred in a way that could lead to violence would have gotten Ware into trouble.

I actually think most UK motorists are sensible and responsible. And the number who are out-and-out courteous far out-number the muppets...

...But it just takes one muppet who thinks you don't belong on the road, and that the 3 seconds he'd lose if he gave you space is more important than your safety...

Steve

 

[RDV4ROUBAIX]

I tried to work out the other day why motorists dont possess the same degree of hate towards horseriders, motorcyclists, tractors, campervans & caravans, horse & carts and any other thing on the road that my hinder their progress. Unfortunately I couldnt.

In fact it got me thinking that if any other group were held in such low regard for no apparent reason there would be uproar.

What do others think?

This hatred of cyclists isn't exclusive to the UK, it's an International epidemic. Basically if you ride a bike past the age of 14 you're considered an annoyance, and most of the general population gets offended by lycra and shaved legs, especially when walking into a cafe. Thankfully I do other sorts of bike riding that doesn't require lycra and a crotchfull of chamois cream, so the "hey f@g, get out of the road!" from passing motorists I probably don't encounter as much as the rest of you, but it still sucks.

 

[RedheadDane]

I'm afraid even in a country like this, where riding your bike is basically second-nature to most people, there are some idiots who think you need to run on an carbon-emitting engine to be allowed on the roads...

 

[Parrulo]

in my hometown riding your bike is pretty safe as people seem to like to see cyclists on the road( in the north of portugal a lot of people love cycling)

during the month of august it gets more dangerous due to the stupid emigrants that come from france and swiss for their annual 1 month vacation in portugal but even then i never had many problems

i do know a guy from the local cycling club who was unlucky enough to find an insane guy that decided to repeatedly hit his fist with his head, he was fine tho only a couple bruises in his first

 

[Cycle Chic]

Cycling Accident AGAIN

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/art...ent-pedestrians-lift-car-trapped-cyclist.html

Yet another catastophe and thank goodness no fatalities.

It shouldn't be a problem riding to work..but unfortunately I dont understand why people take the risk. Its a rat race first thing getting to work, people driving fast on the last minute...and cyclists shouldnt get involved in the madness.

Its not worth your life.

 

[B_Ugli]

An England rugby player expressed his hatred of cyclists a couple of months ago and provoked the following reply from Mark Cavendish:

I remember thinking that,

(a) Comments like these put cyclists lives in danger because they encourage idiots to treat us as people who don't belong on "their roads".

(b) If it were any other group than cyclists, expressing hatred in a way that could lead to violence would have gotten Ware into trouble.

I actually think most UK motorists are sensible and responsible. And the number who are out-and-out courteous far out-number the muppets...

...But it just takes one muppet who thinks you don't belong on the road, and that the 3 seconds he'd lose if he gave you space is more important than your safety...

Steve

Agreed. I think that comments like this should be treated in the same way as inciting any other hatred/violence against a group but they are not taken seriously by the powers that be in my opinion. The problem is that they are taken by many as a call to arms!

 

[Caruut]

Agreed. I think that comments like this should be treated in the same way as inciting any other hatred/violence against a group but they are not taken seriously by the powers that be in my opinion. The problem is that they are taken by many as a call to arms!

I go to uni in Cambridge, and live in Reading during the holidays. The differences in attitudes and driver behaviour when riding in and around Cambridge (probably the most bike-friendly city in the country) and back home are incredible.

I think that the "casual" death threats from people does increase danger on the roads. The number of times I've been on a blind corner on a country lane and a driver has attempted to pass me is astounding. The second they see another car coming around the bend towards them, I'll be like Flecha or Hoogerland. I understand it's frustrating being stuck behind me, for a long time, but if anyone's stuck behind me for that long, it's usually because the roads are so windy that they couldn't be going much faster than me anyway.

I think that the driving test should include questions on who does and doesn't have the right to use the road. Anyone who thinks bikes aren't allowed on the road because they don't pay "road" tax, shouldn't be allowed a driving licence. Cyclists should stop running red lights, behaviour like that exacerbates the problem.

Oh, and if you own a 4x4 and can't get past me, that is your own problem, your car is too fat.

 

[Cycle Chic]

the fens made me laugh.

I think it would be a good idea to include actually riding a bike in the driving test. If more people realised what it felt like to be passed by a car doing 50mph they would realise how scary it is. I find in the UK they do give you a wide berth but its the speed.

My brother recently took up cycling and was shocked at how frightening it is to be riding on a main road. He now wears a high viz jacket.

I find because they can see i,m a girl - due to the long ponytail - i do get more respect shown...i have only had one case of abuse in the past years. Maybe I should start selling false ponytails for you men

 

[Dalakhani]

Oh, and if you own a 4x4 and can't get past me, that is your own problem, your car is too fat.

"I own a 4x4 and the fact my car doesn't fit on one side of the road in a city with parked cars gives me the right to drive on part of your side of the road. 12 inches of space should be more than enough for a cyclist... look, I don't even need to slow down."

Those people and boy racers... they're the worst.

Steve

 

[DirtyWorks]

This hatred of cyclists isn't exclusive to the UK, it's an International epidemic. Basically if you ride a bike past the age of 14 you're considered an annoyance, and most of the general population gets offended by lycra and shaved legs, especially when walking into a cafe. Thankfully I do other sorts of bike riding that doesn't require lycra and a crotchfull of chamois cream, so the "hey f@g, get out of the road!" from passing motorists I probably don't encounter as much as the rest of you, but it still sucks.

Well, some places are worse than others. The U.S. being a bad place overall to ride a bike on public roads. There's a few pockets where things are better.

I spent several week riding/racing in the Manchester area. Tight roads, but not the overt aggression, hit and runs, many get away with in the U.S. The tales I hear is driver courtesy in France is pretty good outside of heavily congested areas.

 

[rhubroma]

Because lazy and insolent people all over the world are addicted to their cars.

 

[Caruut]

Well, some places are worse than others. The U.S. being a bad place overall to ride a bike on public roads. There's a few pockets where things are better.

I spent several week riding/racing in the Manchester area. Tight roads, but not the overt aggression, hit and runs, many get away with in the U.S. The tales I hear is driver courtesy in France is pretty good outside of heavily congested areas.

Only ever cycled in Paris, as far as France goes, drivers didn't have too much respect for me and my Velib.On the other hand, they didn't have much for each other either, so I felt they were at least being consistent.

 

[Le breton]

Only ever cycled in Paris, as far as France goes, drivers didn't have too much respect for me and my Velib.On the other hand, they didn't have much for each other either, so I felt they were at least being consistent.

I like your comments. Parisians think that the "périphérique" marks the borders of France, I sort of agree, but for me France is OUTSIDE the périphérique, not inside.

Overall I don't have too many grudges against car drivers here, most common problem is not being given the right of way, women drivers seem to be somewhat worse in this (lack of) respect.

Near Geneva you have the problem that so many people ("internationals")come from countries where cyclists don't have any rights.

 

[daveinzambia]

I tried to work out the other day why motorists dont possess the same degree of hate towards horseriders, motorcyclists, tractors, campervans & caravans, horse & carts and any other thing on the road that my hinder their progress. Unfortunately I couldnt.

In fact it got me thinking that if any other group were held in such low regard for no apparent reason there would be uproar.

What do others think?

i strongly resent the implication in this posting that people in the UK do not hate Caravans. As both a bike rider (been nearly cleaned up by caravans on several occasions, almost like they forget it is back there) and as a person that used to regularly drive to cornwall i am very passionate in my hatred of caravans and think i joined by many of my fellow Brits.

Now i live in a city in Australian they no longer seem to feature in my daily life so i reserve all of my hatred (both as a cyclist and a driver) for Taxi's.

 

[Quixote]

i strongly resent the implication in this posting that people in the UK do not hate Caravans. As both a bike rider (been nearly cleaned up by caravans on several occasions, almost like they forget it is back there) and as a person that used to regularly drive to cornwall i am very passionate in my hatred of caravans and think i joined by many of my fellow Brits.

Now i live in a city in Australian they no longer seem to feature in my daily life so i reserve all of my hatred (both as a cyclist and a driver) for Taxi's.

What's not to hate? in the US we call them trailers...I believe that's what we're referring to...a pesky vehicle indeed.

 

[gingerwallaceafro]

i strongly resent the implication in this posting that people in the UK do not hate Caravans. As both a bike rider (been nearly cleaned up by caravans on several occasions, almost like they forget it is back there) and as a person that used to regularly drive to cornwall i am very passionate in my hatred of caravans and think i joined by many of my fellow Brits.

Now i live in a city in Australian they no longer seem to feature in my daily life so i reserve all of my hatred (both as a cyclist and a driver) for Taxi's.

When I'm in a car those pesky bike riders really wind me up, when I'm on a bike those car drivers are idiots! The next taxi driver...

 

[uphillstruggle]

I find in the UK they do give you a wide berth but its the speed.

I have to disagree. In France they wont overtake you if they don't have the other side of the road to move into. They pip before they come past to let you know. It puts British motorist to shame.

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

...Driver behind cyclists. Why are they holding me up they shoulnt be there, they are slowing me down, I will rev my engine and drive past as close as I can to scare them and show them I am the boss.

Why hated in the UK is same as anywhere else, as B_Ugli points out.

I've had motorists thinking they are in the right pull alongside at my pace and proceed to give me a verbal what-for. The best response other than no response is in the first place to know your rights as a cyclist and the laws in your area. Then tell them you (the cyclist) are obeying the traffic laws (hopefully you are), tell them what the law is, and ask them if they were aware of that. Maybe ask them if they are obeying the law ATM.

For drivers who like to pass to close in order to scare the cyclists, they best beware of the potential to be charged with vehicular assault as a minimum. In my state (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.522):
RCW 46.61.522
Vehicular assault — Penalty.
(1) A person is guilty of vehicular assault if he or she operates or drives any vehicle:
(a) In a reckless manner and causes substantial bodily harm to another; or
(b) While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, as defined
by RCW 46.61.502, and causes substantial bodily harm to another; or
(c) With disregard for the safety of others and causes substantial bodily
harm to another.
(2) Vehicular assault is a class B felony punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW.
(3) As used in this section, "substantial bodily harm" has the same meaning
as in RCW 9A.04.110.

 

[DirtyWorks]

...For drivers who like to pass to close in order to scare the cyclists, they best beware of the potential to be charged with vehicular assault as a minimum. In my state (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.61.522):
RCW 46.61.522

Many States have similar laws, but the acid test is will a DA prosecute? The answer in the vast majority of California is a resounding NO. The greater political fear is angering the car-driving voters. And they do get angry about DA's 'protecting cyclists.' I would guess the situation in Washington State is the same. Maybe there's a pocket of more enlightened politics in Washington State? They would be an exception, not the norm.

 

[MarkvW]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/art...ent-pedestrians-lift-car-trapped-cyclist.html

Yet another catastophe and thank goodness no fatalities.

It shouldn't be a problem riding to work..but unfortunately I dont understand why people take the risk. Its a rat race first thing getting to work, people driving fast on the last minute...and cyclists shouldnt get involved in the madness.

Its not worth your life.

Timing is a surprisingly big deal when it comes to commuting. If I leave at 7:00 a.m., I'll have to deal with commuters and parents taking their kids to school. If I leave at 6:30, I have the streets largely to myself.

 

[pedaling squares]

"hey f@g, get out of the road!"

I got that once, and lo and behold there was that same car with the same driver right in front of me while on patrol later that night. Best $1000 worth of tickets I ever wrote and I can still see the world's worst tow company dragging that knob's BMW down the road and out of sight. Score one for the good guys. But I digress...


(all tix were legit of course. Come on! I do have ethics!)

 

[ElChingon]

Well I know from experience that half of it has to do with the rider. I've heard stories about the worst cities/roads/etc. then ridden them and not one issue! So the rider is also responsible for provoking such bad relationships with drivers. Sure there's still the hot head drivers I agree, but not doing dumb things helps a lot! I know from riding with ex-riding friends that they can escalate the most minor issue into Road War Nth, stay away from those cyclists. I've ridden roads most fellow cyclist have sworn off due to rabid and irresponsible drivers and way too many incidents, yet when I ride those roads I never get harassed as some tell me occurs way too often. So just ride safely and intelligently and you'll be fine. Heck I've ridden on the great interstates (on the sections where its legal) and not one incident. Just wave hello to those yelling out obscenities as if they're your long lost friend, most end up puzzled and then drive off thinking they might even know you.