This semester I embarked on a journey that has proven to be quite stressful. I decided that not only would I walk to campus, but I would sometimes also ride a bike or drive, depending on the situation and weather. I noticed quite quickly a pattern of emotion: when I was walking, I hated cyclists and drivers; when I was riding my bike I hated walkers and drivers; when I was driving, I hated walkers and cyclists.
Great.
For about a month I’ve alternated between the three, and I can safely say that with careful observation, I’ve accumulated some tips that will make everyone happy with everyone else. So, no more animosity! (I also must admit that everything I’m writing about I have done numerous times).
If you bike:
- Don’t weave your bike left and right. We’re not sure where you are going and would rather not run into you.
- Drive on the road when possible, and please follow the laws. Stop at the stop signs, gesture when you want to turn, etc.
- If it’s a crowded place, walk with your bike. Don’t impatiently huff in a crowd when you very obviously cannot get somewhere.
If you drive:
- Don’t get impatient at the crosswalk on Bigelow in front of the Cathedral (pictured above). Notice how far the car is into the crosswalk! Yes, that is the most annoying crosswalk for drivers, but that crosswalk is the hub of Pitt’s foot-traffic. If at all possible, avoid it from about 11am to 2 pm. It’s unbearable.
- Treat those who ride a bike as a small car. If I come to a four-way stop before you, please don’t stop and then floor the gas. The traffic laws on the road are the same for bikes as they are for drivers.
- Don’t drive the wrong way down Fifth. The amount of times I’ve seen that actually surprises me.
If you walk:
- Please don’t abruptly stop and change direction.
- You and your friend don’t need to take up the entire sidewalk; please move to the side and share the space!
- Don’t zigzag, it makes passing you whether on foot, or on bike, a little intimidating. Where are you going to zigzag next?
I know. With this day and age, it’s very easy to get distracted: texting while walking, listening to music, and texting while biking (I’ve seen it). If we all pay a little more attention to our surroundings, we would make travelling to campus, regardless of how we’re getting there, that much more enjoyable and less frustrating!
Photo Credit: Google Images