http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/2009/11/02/1102wear.html?
Author: Ben Wear, Austin American Statesman; November 2, 2009
I agree with being more careful when passing cyclist, but this article is not entirely accurate. Cyclist do not pay a fee for roads through their utility bill drivers pay for the roads through their utility bill. If you do not own a car you can request to have it removed with proof of course. I personally spoke with the city about this extra fee for my grandma's bill and we could have it removed because she does not own or have a vehicle of any kind.
This article is worth reading because if you are not aware of this change in the law you will not get to plead ignorance as a defense in court. While these laws are being put into place to protect a certain group of people it is a trap for the majority. If cyclist feel so inclined to have special laws they should have to register their bikes as cars do and pay a fee as such and then maybe there will be funds to go all around town and develop special lanes for them. They should also have to follow the same laws as cars, because these pick and choose rules they abide by are causing drivers big problems. Just as we have to be more careful around 18 wheelers because of their inability to stop or maneuver as quickly as a car or even average truck; they should be aware of our limitations. Cycling is a great instrument of transporting and exercising, but those who choose this method should be responsible for their safety as well. Many of them don't bother to wear protective gear, while drivers are required to use seat belts. What the heck is wrong with this picture? Looks to me like keeping Austin weird has been taken way too far, it's totally backwards.
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