This week we received thousands of comments on our Facebook page about the incident of a motorist abusing two cyclists who were legally doing the right thing. Despite the wave of people showing complete ignorance for the road rules and disdain for cyclists, we took the editorial stance of defending the law and cyclists. It was nice then, among the complete hysteria and senseless vitriol, to receive these balanced responses _
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“Well stated editorial,” one reader wrote. “Thank you for clarifying the rules of the road and the fact motorists must be responsible on the roads as it is their behaviours that determine road safety towards others. Thank you as well for bringing to my attention the World Cycling Championships will be coming to the Illawara region in 2022. That is a wonderful honour to be awarded that huge event and will be a marvellous boost for the town. It’s now firmly etched in my diary and I will come to visit the region before the event and eagerly await the event itself. Thank you also for your support of cyclists as people and cycling as an activity. As cyclists we need greater support from the media and you are leading the way with your editorial.”
Then there was this to our reporter Glen Humphries _
“Hey Glen, you have done a fantastic job covering the recent motorist getting caught driving on a shared pathway. I can not believe the ignorance of a lot of motorists who posted comments on FB. I think the government has failed to educate drivers about current road rules. I recently spoke to an elderly driver who knew nothing about the MPD 1m road rule. Well done and keep up the great work.”
It was disappointing, but not surprising to see national media outlets pedal (pun intended) complete mistruths about the actual legalities of this situation. It was either complete ignorance or a deliberate act to pander to the vitriolic mass and further incite hate against cyclists. Both equally as frightening and irresponsible. As we move into the weekend, we send this final message once again. Share the road and remember if you are going to drive and abuse your privilege it may be you who needs to ride a bike into the future.
