Is there any research that suggests cyclists are safer drivers than drivers who don't cycle? Is there evidence to suggest the opposite?
Please remember this is not a discussion. Please include references to credible research in your answer.
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2I vote to close. "Are there any studies or statistics that conclude cyclists are safer, better, or more law abiding drivers, than drivers who don't cycle?" Right! Many cyclists here in cycling heaven ride with complete "abandon". By "abandon", I mean no lights at night, no helments, wearing dark clothes at night, etc– user313Oct 5, 2011 at 0:46
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1On the other hand, cyclists may be better drivers. When I arrive at an intersection while driving, I do give it some thought. Last week, after stopping at a stop sign on a dark, rainy night, I came very close to pulling out into a cyclist with no lights, dark clothing, etc. My "cyclist" mentality made me look twice.– user313Oct 5, 2011 at 1:12
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1I've voted to re-open, but I think the question would be better if it defined what a better driver is, and what kind of cyclist we're talking about. (There was an explanation of that in an earlier version of the question.) Another tactic would be to ask if vehicular cycling enhances driving skills, and if so, how?– Goodbye Stack ExchangeOct 5, 2011 at 3:58
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1@ jason s - "I want research" - Totally understand. However, not sure that there is valid research linking "cyclist drivers" vs "non-cyclist drivers" as for safety. Perhaps?– user313Oct 5, 2011 at 4:15
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2@ Jason - I actually like your question. I just can't find any research linking cyclists vs non-cyclists to driver safety. I am inclined to think that a cyclist might be a better driver...however, considering some cyclists I've seen, maybe not.– user313Oct 5, 2011 at 5:02
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1 Answer
I found a report from the Institute of Advanced Motoring on Cycling Motorists. The vast majority of motorists believe that cyclists do make safer drivers.
Even those motorists who don't cycle believe that cyclists are safer drivers.
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More opinions, of course, but at least the opinions (on that one issue) are leaning in our favor. Oct 6, 2011 at 11:43
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@DanielRHicks At least this is based on over 1000 opinions from a cross-section of people and qualifies as credible research. +1 and I'm marking this as an answer until something better comes along. Surprising results though. It would be interesting what similar surveys would produce here in Sydney. The ones done by the tabloid newspapers always come up with negative attitudes towards cyclists.– Jason SOct 9, 2011 at 1:43