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jay walking
I have lived in London for more than 30 years.I cycle for short trips but frequently use a motorcycle for longer journeys across town. Pedestrians may have a statutory and equal right to the road, however their negligent actions rarely have legal repercussions (unlike in the USA)
(Example 1)
By far the most dangerous stage of my regular bicycle commute to Hammersmith was Oxford Street. One morning a 'jaywalking' pedestrian stepped in front of me with a walkman in one ear and a mobile phone on the other. I did a complete loop over the bars trying to avoid them wrecking my forks and splitting my lip..
RESULT £150 of damage to my bike, 1 hour late for work, meanwhile the perpetrator of this mayhem disappeared into the crowds as if nothing had happened.
(Example 2)
Piccadilly circus filtering on the outside of three lanes of stationery traffic on a 1200cc Triumph Trophy I was confronted by a grey haired 80 year old who had somehow found her way past Iron railings and three lanes of vehicles revving for the red light.
I might have spotted her sooner if not for the white van I was passing, even at 10mph I locked everything up and my bike ground to a halt on its side at her feet. Although it didn't touch her she lost balance and collapsed over the fairing smashing the indicators and gashing her leg.
RESULT:Little old lady goes to hospital I get breathalised by the Police (who were actually very understanding)
The £560 damage to my bike is not worth claiming for with My excess, so I have to suck it up!( I end up selling it 6months later at a huge discount!)
I even sent flowers to the old dear in hospital £25!
My point here is that EVERYONE has a duty of care on the road, it doesn't matter if you are walking, cycling, motorcycling, driving a car or a 40 ton Chieftain tank!
My experience of riding a bike (and bicycle) in a bus lane has all been positive, I'm really careful passing bicycles because I know what it feels like. This is a potentially life saving initiative that should be extended nationwide.