Pedronimus
New Member
I am against it. You don't see the Dutch or Danish draped in safety gear looking as if they are going on to a building site. It also sends the wrong message to non-cyclists that cycling is dangerous. And it isn't really. There are very few deaths in Ireland.I think the hi-viz should be worn by all.
To make cycling safer you need more cyclists. Cyclists death numbers stay roughly the same no matter how many people cycle, so if more people cycle, relatively fewer cyclists die. Hmmm.....The number would be the same in abosulte terms so is that safer? Anyone an Actuary?
I also believe risk compensation plays a part in how you cycle. A friend of mine is horrified that I don't wear a helmet. In his words...
Him: I had to cycle home yesterday without my helmet. I felt very vunerable.
Me: That's a good thing, you probably took fewer risks.
The point was lost on him. I've been involved in a few chats on the boards cycling forum where someone wants to get more cycling armour to protect against falls when a pedestrian steps out or door opens. My suggestion of slowing down a bit when cycling through the city centre usually falls on deaf ears. I'm all for accident avoidance rather than damage limitation.