Bicyclists need to be aware of pedestrians

The University of Hawai`i-Manoa campus is filled with bicyclists and pedestrians. Bicycles are convenient, inexpensive and efficient; students are bound to use them.

Many pedestrians, however, have been suffering consequences. Since bicycles and pedestrians share the same paths, conflicts emerge between the two forms of transportation.

In such conflicts, bicyclists have the advantage. After all, bicyclists travel at higher speeds than pedestrians, and bicyclists have pounds of metal to their advantage.

Unfortunately, too many bicyclists take advantage of this. The mobility that a bicycles gives to the traveler usually results in bicycles weaving in and out of pedestrian areas. Often, pedestrians end up yielding or being injured.

Bicyclists need to be keenly aware of the consequences of their actions. Pedestrian areas are, after all for pedestrians, and bicyclists need to remember this if they choose to venture into these areas. Bicyclists should also keep in mind that they are expected to obey all traffic laws.

It's easy to take advantage of the power a bicycle gives, so please be cautious. Let's keep every one safe.