AB73: A Step Backwards for Intersection Safety
Did You Know?
Under AB73, sponsored by Laura Friedman and Lindsay Horvath, bicyclists would be allowed to roll through stop signs on two-lane highways, potentially compromising intersection safety. While this bill might sound like a small adjustment for cyclists, it poses significant risks and undermines the safety protocols that keep our roads secure.
The Impact on Safety
Intersection Safety Concerns
The primary purpose of stop signs is to manage traffic flow and ensure safety at intersections. By allowing bicyclists to ignore full stops, AB73 introduces several safety concerns:
Increased Accident Risk: Intersections are already high-risk areas for accidents. Allowing cyclists to proceed without stopping can lead to more collisions with vehicles that might not anticipate a cyclist's continuous motion.
Pedestrian Safety: Pedestrians rely on predictable traffic patterns. Cyclists rolling through stop signs can surprise pedestrians, leading to potential accidents.
Confusion and Inconsistency: This bill creates an inconsistency in traffic laws. Motorists and cyclists following different rules at the same intersection can lead to confusion and misjudgments, further increasing the risk of accidents.
Broader Implications
Undermining Traffic Regulations
AB73 not only poses a direct threat to intersection safety but also undermines the integrity of traffic regulations:
Erosion of Compliance: If cyclists are permitted to ignore stop signs, it may set a precedent that weakens adherence to other traffic laws, leading to broader non-compliance issues.
Public Trust in Lawmakers: Residents of California's 30th Congressional District may lose trust in their progressive leadership if such potentially dangerous laws are passed without thorough consideration of their implications.
A Contradiction in Leadership
Laura Friedman for Congress has built a reputation on “progressive” leadership and advocating for community safety. However, AB73 contradicts these principles by potentially endangering both cyclists and motorists. This inconsistency raises questions about the priorities and decision-making processes within her legislative agenda.
Alternative Solutions
Instead of passing AB73, more balanced approaches can be considered to support cyclists while maintaining safety:
Dedicated Bike Lanes: Investing in more bike lanes can provide safer pathways for cyclists without compromising intersection safety.
Enhanced Signage and Signals: Implementing bicycle-specific traffic signals can help manage cyclist traffic at intersections more effectively.
Community and Legislative Involvement
As a community activist in California, it's crucial to stay informed about legislation like AB73. Engage with local leaders, stay abreast of the bills they are writing, and participate in discussions about laws affecting our community's safety and well-being.
Conclusion
AB73, while seemingly aimed at facilitating easier travel for cyclists, introduces significant safety risks that cannot be ignored. By compromising intersection safety, it stands in contrast to the values of responsible and progressive leadership. California's residents deserve laws that enhance safety and well-being, not ones that jeopardize it.
Stay informed, stay involved, and let's advocate for sensible legislation that truly benefits our community.
Friedman’s opponent, Alex Balekian, MD is running to counter many of the progressive policies that are making our lives more expensive and restrictive. You can find out more about his platform here.
