Ahh...the old "If you're not with us you're against us"
Not at all
As I interpret the thread, it was focused on how to preserve lane splitting, not how to improve rider safety. My opinion is that the relationship is overrated and letting people know the assholish behavior they see is already covered by existing laws is a more effective route to pursue.
Again, not at all. The thread is about developing a campaign to show drivers that lane sharing is safe and smart. To show them there are many riders who ride conscientiously, courteously and safely and we appreciate their acceptance of that reality. It's also about educating new and existing riders of the simple courtesies and etiquette that go a long way toward safe travels on a moto.
The reality is that this is about asshole politicians who use legislation as a notch in the belt of their political career. It's about sensationalism and emotion in the spirit of yellow journalism more than a rational approach to problem solving. Riding with happy faces on our jackets won't matter. Scaring politicians by demonstrating political clout will. Bickering about nuances in a proposed law won't matter either...perhaps calling it as the toothless unnecessary legislation it really is might.
OK, that's nothing new. One of the tools at our disposal for dealing with the issues we're dealt is what you're reading right here, and it has to start somewhere. Yes, it's useless legislation, but it's out there now and there's no going back. The best thing we can do is to convince all those car drivers that lane sharing is really OK and it will actually help reduce the Bay Area's horrific commute traffic.
So with that in mind, where is this political clout we need going to come from? If we can't get people
on our side, the very least we can do is make it an
non-issue for car drivers. Show them there are responsible people behind this effort. We're doctors, engineers, professionals, college-degreed, tax paying participants in society. We have children, homes, grand children. We are responsible people. If the practice simply becomes more accepted, there is less likelihood of more poor legislation.
The participants in this thread are looking for ways to help. You've made a couple of very good points, but don't stop there. If you can recognize the problem, you should be able to help work out a solution.
And FWIW, I generally follow the original CHP guidelines and the simple philosophy of DBAD. That includes being a courteous driver whether I'm in my car or on the bike.
That is truly great, you
are part of the solution. If you do nothing else your actions will be seen by many and at the very least, you'll be teaching by example.
So don't get all caught-up in the 'elected' politics of the issue, make a difference where you can, on the street, with the rest of us voters.
