It might be tempting to assign fault in these incidents, but that would miss the main point, which is that bikes and cars are a dangerous mix – for the cyclist!! – especially when any of the parties is inattentive, inconsiderate or just plan reckless. Compounding the situation in Redwood Shores is our car-oriented lifestyle, which is encouraged by wide Parkways that ring the Shores like a Formula One race course, and our distance from services and shopping, which dictate a trip by car across 101 for most errands. Moreover, our excellent schools and safe, attractive neighborhoods mean that we have large numbers of families with children who ride bicycles and walk to school and around the Shores.
In view of this potentially dangerous combination of factors, it is highly recommended that cyclists ride with great care, remain attentive to their surroundings, wear appropriate protective gear, and give automobiles the wide berth and healthy respect they merit (being massive, fast, and frequently driven by distracted drivers).
On the other side of the equation, we drivers need to be more aware of and considerate of bicyclists and pedestrians (and wildlife); we also must slow down when driving on Redwood Shores Parkway and Shearwater Parkway, where relatively long stretches between stop signs allow drivers to exceed 50 mph (far above our local speed limit of 35 mph).
I can personally attest to the problem of inattentive drivers on our Parkways, which I observe regularly when attempting to cross Redwood Shores Parkway at Cringle Drive. As you may be aware, the City has posted an electronic sign at this intersection that flashes a warning when activated by a pedestrian prior to crossing the Parkway. Having activated this sign on many occasions, I can say without exaggeration that about a third of the cars I encounter on Redwood Shores Parkway ignore this sign completely and drive right through the intersection without so much as sideways glance. My experience has been confirmed by many others who have attempted to make the same crossing. I’m wary of cars, so do not expect them to halt. But children might not be as cautious. We don’t want our kids, or any other bicyclist or pedestrian, to be injured. So drivers – slow down and drive courteously. And bicyclists – be safe and attentive. There are enough roadways out here for all of us to share – safely.
Submitted by Doug Crisman, RSCA President