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Bike Lane Peril: Are Separated Paths a Danger for Cyclists and Pedestrians

The Quest for Safe Cycling

In recent times, the implementation of separated bicycle lanes, often nestled between parked cars and sidewalks, has been on the rise in various cities worldwide. The same is true of Montreal which has started implimenting such bike lanes across the city. One of the latest places that has seen such a path implemented is in the Park-Extension area and more specifically Querbes Avenue.

Proponents argue that these lanes promote cyclist safety and encourage a more active lifestyle. The mayor of the Borough insists that these new paths will improve security. Laurence Lavigne Lalonde, insisted that the cities studies showed that these changes were required and she would not want to wait until a kid gets hurt before taking action. Although the residents have been requesting access to said studies, it turns out that no such studies were done. However, a study conducted by the Community and Regional Planning Program in Denver, Colorado, raises significant concerns about the safety of such separated bicycle lanes.

What the Studies Have Found

The study conducted on the relationship between separated bicycle lanes and bicycle crashes in Denver, Colorado, delivered striking results. The research employed a Poisson Rate Regression analysis method, combining crash data with the current bicycle facilities in the city. The findings were statistically significant and revealed a startling trend – separated bicycle lanes were associated with more bicycle crashes than shared roads. These findings are mirrored in an IIHS study which found that street-level protected bike lanes like the one on Querbes Ave have a high risk of injury to cyclists.

Separation Doesn’t Equal Safety

Contrary to popular belief, the study’s data challenged the assumption that separating cyclists from vehicular traffic makes cycling safer. In fact, it suggested that such separation may increase the risk of accidents for cyclists. Of all the types of separated bicycle lanes examined, the cycle track appeared to be the riskiest, with the highest incidence of bicycle crashes. These data points have been corroborated by seasoned transportation professionals.

The Urgent Need for Reevaluation

These findings cast doubt on the wisdom of implementing separated bicycle lanes as a blanket solution for cyclist safety. While these lanes may provide a sense of security for cyclists, the actual accident data suggests otherwise. It is crucial for city planners and policymakers to reconsider their approach to bike lane design and prioritize the safety of cyclists. Laurence Lavigne Lalonde the Borough mayor needs to reconsider her stance on this issue.

Future Research Directions

The study also highlighted the need for further investigation. Future studies should aim to create and compare more accurate crash rates, incorporating bicycle and traffic volume data. Additionally, assessing crash rates before and after the installation of separated bicycle lanes on specific streets is essential for a comprehensive understanding of their impact on safety. The lack of accurate data before and after any changes is implemented is unacceptable.

City Officials need to Take a step Back

The implementation of separated bicycle lanes, with the intention of enhancing cyclist safety, has raised significant concerns based on the findings of the study conducted in Denver, Colorado. While the idea of physically separating cyclists from vehicular traffic may seem appealing, it is essential to base such decisions on empirical data and thorough analysis. The study’s results suggest that separated bicycle lanes may not be the panacea for cyclist safety, urging city planners and legislators to reevaluate their strategies and prioritize the protection of cyclists on the road.

Negligent Actions of the Mayor

One cannot ignore the glaring negligence exhibited by the mayor in enforcing these changes despite the heartfelt pleas of concerned citizens. The citizens, driven by their genuine desire to ensure the safety of their children, elderly, cyclists, handicapped members of the community, as well as saving the parking spots for the residents of the Borough have repeatedly voiced their concerns.

It is disheartening to witness the mayor’s disregard for the safety and well-being of her constituents, particularly when empirical evidence questions the effectiveness of the separated bicycle lanes. Ignoring the pleas of the community, who are the most affected by these changes, raises significant questions about the mayor’s commitment to their welfare and the responsible execution of her duties. It is essential for public officials to listen to the concerns of their constituents and prioritize their safety above all else when implementing urban infrastructure changes.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/dianafurchtgott-roth/2022/09/08/bike-lanes-dont-make-cycling-safe/amp/