Obviously it is easier for cyclist to cross faster than a pedestrian. This is precisely why riding on a sidewalk at speed is so dangerous. It is very difficult for a driver to scan sufficiently to pick up a cyclist moving much faster than a pedestrian when said driver would like to cross a crosswalk, whether at a signal or not. This is likely also a problem for runners on a sidewalk as well.
Unfortunately, we teach our least cautious riders, our children, to ride on sidewalks and they are often oblivious to the need to cycle defensively.
Note that the code's definition of don't walk says that people already starting can complete, so there's no conflict between that and the blinking hand. We're only talking about VA.
You're basically arguing that there should be something else because you don't want there to be just two states. I think the fact that assembly has chosen not to add additional states (the last revision was in 2008, so they obviously knew the possibility existed) shows clear legislative intent. The record of the work at the federal level which resulted in the decision not to recommend model legislation recognizing special rules for countdown timers can also arguably show some intent (the issue was raised and discarded with reason).
For what it's worth, I think the entire concept of a blinking red is idiotic. It should be walk right up until it's "don't walk" and there shouldn't be a blink. There should be a countdown timer so people know how much time they have and can make an informed judgment. All the hand-wringing about needing a blinking red so that people don't get run down in intersections is absurd; instead, we could just make it clear that drivers aren't allowed to run down people in crosswalks and simplify things immensely. Simple thought exercise: if someone is slower than average and can't make it across the road during the cycle, is it ok to run them down? If "no", the blinking red cycle is a waste of our time.
I have no idea about the code and whatnot, but for what it's worth, after reading this thread, I've now decided not to cross if it's blinking. I'll probably get rear-ended by a cyclist now. This morning I decided not to push through with about 5 seconds left and as it happened, no cars turned right since the drivers apparently thought that I would cross. They waited until I put my foot down.
I thought I was pretty clear. And I don't think everyone else was talking about turns either. And I think you're still not clear about what I'm talking about.
Miscommunication happens. I don't mind that. I'll work to clarify. Please don't place all the blame for it at my feet though.
Last edited by baiskeli; 09-18-2013 at 11:22 AM.
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