Cycle Lanes and Traffic Filters

[SquareDaff]

Pretty early in my route home I come across one of those traffic filters that block half the road - with another one on the opposite side of the road a distance further along - and a right of way sign. They have little cycle "direct routes" to the left so I can kindly save myself the half a second of effort I'd have to expend going round!! Normally take these (might was well save the energy ) on all except one.

I approach from the side with right of way - however if I use the cycle "direct route" the distance between filters is so small I invariably find that an impatient car driver from the other side comes through meaning I'm heading straight for a car bonnet. Self preservation has kicked in now and I use the same route as the cars do!

Last night I got a load of abuse from an impatient a-h*le who muttered something about a cycle lane and a few explitives. I just smiled and waved (nothing irritates an impatient driver more!! ) .

Just wanted to double check.....I'm not forced by law to use these pathetic excuses for cycle lanes am I?

 

[clarion]

No compulsion whatsoever. And often safer to go with the traffic flow, where you can be seen, rather than having to rejoin a line of motor traffic veering back to the left.

 

[summerdays]

No compulsion whatsoever. And often safer to go with the traffic flow, where you can be seen, rather than having to rejoin a line of motor traffic veering back to the left.

What he said.

Just use the facilities that you think help you and ignore the others, some help, some hinder.