Driving by Cycles

As drivers, it is important for us to remember that bicycles are vehicles that have a legal right to use the roads. Yet cyclists will vary widely in age, physical ability, and knowledge; children, for instance, can ride a bike long before they're able to comprehend the rules of the road. Bikes can travel at rates of 25 mph or more, keeping up nicely with city traffic, yet their narrow tires do not necessarily respond to road conditions in the same manner as a car. Aimed at teaching commercial vehicle operators how they can more safely share the road with their two-wheeled companions, this program presents realistic scenarios in summer downpours, rush-hour snowstorms, and alongside noisy streetcars. While some segments look as though they were filmed on a camcorder, and the sound quality is not always clear, I think the cinema vérité style ultimately lends street cred to the situations. Although the intended audience includes coach and school bus drivers, public transit workers, and taxi drivers, this would be of equal value to cyclists. Sections include "Bicycles are Vehicles," "Cell Phones," "Night Riding," "Weather," and more. A comprehensive addition to a collection of road safety videos, this Canadian production is highly recommended where need for this professionally-aimed program warrants purchase. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Asala)