In order to understand the logic being applied by Islington Council, you have to take a look at the picture below.
Obviously, the only conclusion to be drawn from the idiotic behaviour being demonstrated by the cyclist is that HGV drivers need to take mandatory cycling lessons.
Yes, that’s right. Islington’s knee-jerk reaction to the recent spate of cyclist fatalities (and innumerable other non-fatal incidents) in London is to make it compulsory for HGV drivers working for the Council to take the so-called “Safe Urban Driving training course, or equivalent”.
That “or equivalent” part probably means that an NVQ in Pigeon Spotting would also suffice, but that’s just speculation on my part.
Of course, to anyone with any sense, the picture above would immediately prompt the introduction of mandatory IQ tests for cyclists – but we’re talking about a right-on leftie group, here.
As you’d expect, positive sounding grunts have come from pro-cycling groups. However – and also as you’d expect – the proposals don’t go far enough for them.
Ideally we’d like to see lorries redesigned so they do not have blind spots, by lowering the windscreens to knee height, such as you see in coaches or some rubbish trucks.
The moron in the photo would obviously be totally safe in that case. I mean, it’s obvious. And then some prat in the Green Party says:
Getting heavy goods vehicle drivers out on their bikes will help build understanding between cyclists and lorry drivers. However we must ensure that drivers of these large vehicles are not “driving blind” through crowded city streets.
I despair that society has degenerated to the point where people can make puerile comments like this from positions of perceived power and responsibility. They’re just idiots.
As long as people like the guy in the photograph exist, it is obvious what needs to be done – and it doesn’t involve re-training anyone driving a motor vehicle.