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Sharing the road

A number of Citizen issues ago, I read an article about motorists sharing our P.G. roads with bicyclists. I thought the story to be both thoughtful and considerate for those on bicycles.

A number of Citizen issues ago, I read an article about motorists sharing our P.G. roads with bicyclists. I thought the story to be both thoughtful and considerate for those on bicycles. In reading this story, there became a trigger for concern that I want address and it is directly related to sharing our roadways.

I am currently 61 years of age and I operate an 80cc motor scooter. It is not the coolest, most macho looking motorcycle on the road, but is practical and easy to operate. This I do for pleasure, keeping my foot on the wild side for my age, and for economic reasons. I have had a class 6 operator's license for 40 years now. I have an abundance of riding experience on large motorcycles and off road bikes.

While the majority of motor vehicle operators recognize the limitations of lower powered gas operated motor bikes and who happen to notice who are on them, drive accordingly with consideration through their driving habits and subsequent attitudes towards smaller motorized vehicles. Having said that, there are other motorists who have a small tire burning under their rear ends and need to get to their destination in record time or to get to the nearest fire extinguisher. This I have experienced from vehicle operators tailgating, horns blaring from behind, and motorists passing motor scooters on residential roadways. I have been intimidated by this and feel forced to speed up. These actions for me, others may agree pose a danger not only to the motorcyclist but to pedestrians and other motorists traveling in the opposite direction.

At my age, there is more to things than the need for speed and hurry, or taking unnecessary risks.

A paradigm shift in thought and attitude, empathy and patience, along with enjoying the drive on the roads that belong to all of us is needed.

L. Lane

Prince George