Why the Idaho Stop May be Safer For Cyclists

[Aushiker]

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Science writer and journalist Joseph Stromberg believes that bicycle commuters should follow a different set of rules from motorists. That's the kind of position that usually attracts spirited debate—and sometimes naked vitriol—from commenters online, many of whom worry that cyclists aren't obeying the law when they cross streets at red lights and blow through stop signs.

More at the Boise Weekly

Andrew

[yugyug]

Yeah, I'm all for it. Its pretty much how I treat a stop sign now anyway.

[gorilla monsoon]

It makes good sense and that is why we will never get it. I'd suggest it is too open to interpretation for our law makers.

[Xplora]

This is pretty much in line with what I was saying yesterday. The stop sign is simply a way of saying to a road user "hey, you REALLY need to be careful at this intersection". It's like a Give Way +++ sign. People can work out how to get around the place without signs, funnily enough. Bring on the Idaho Stop.

[Mulger bill]

I'm in for this, would love to not have to stop unless needed.
Put it in on trial and enforce the crap out of anybody being stupid.

[Xplora]

^^ The Darwin Awards are for the only enforcement that really works.

[ColinOldnCranky]

Sorta like a pedestrian walking who does not stop but, out of self preservation, checks for safety.

[Xplora]

Or, Colin, exactly like that.

[wellington_street]

This is how most prudent motorists treat stop signs already. Others just ignore them completely, or stop every time.