Running red lights and stop signs

[Noel Llopis]

I was disappointed to see a few riders in the regular group today running stop signs and red lights (at a T intersection, but they were still red lights).

As usual, something like that only takes one person, and the rest of the group follow through because they don't want to be dropped. Or, even worse, some people stop while others don't, and there's an accident.

I know the club doesn't want this kind of behavior on the road, which reflects really badly on cyclists in general and on NCCC in particular. I suggest that in the pre-ride spiel we remind people not to run red lights and stop signs at the beginning of every ride. Also, encourage people not to follow others that run them.

Any other suggestions on how to cut down on that?

[karlos]

Noel, I think after anyone takes the Traffic Skills 101 class, they will really never want to run a light or a stop sign, even at a tee intersection. There is a lot of folklore about tee intersections, but since a bicycle is supposed to obey all traffic laws, simply ask yourself, "Would I do this in my car?" to decide what the right behavior is. We had a great class of 24 students at TS 101 last night, including 4 NCCC members. I would like to get everyone through the class. If Pete Penseyres, with over 600,000 miles in his legs learned something when he took the class, I guarantee everyone in our club will learn something. I hope to see you and everyone else who has not been in the class out there one day!

Thanks for raising the issue - best thing is to have routes like the long ride today where we had miles without traffic control. When you're riding through areas with traffic control, slow down and obey the laws - you eventually will have a chance along the ride to let it all out! Stopping at all stop signs is simply a better workout if you're thinking about training.

[Robert Abraham]

It is unfortunate but it does happen. There are times when it may seem ok, that's it's safe, no cops, no traffic, but it's really just a lame excuse. Yes, I have done it too. And yes there are some extremely rare instances in which we have to. I realize that the routes pass through areas that are more urbanized, more traffic controls and the like. This is something we must accept and deal with. As Karl said, any one that completes the classes will have a new perspective. I can't stress enough how valuable the class is, and I strongly encourage everyone to take it. You will learn things. If you think you don't need to take the class, then you probably need to take the class.

If you see your fellow club mates riding in an unsafe or unlawful manner, say something. It's better to take a chance busting someone's ego than see a semi bust someone's skull.