Cyclists deserve the roadway
For most cyclists, the argument of whether or not we deserve to be on the roadway is common [usually shot at you by belligerent drivers speeding to their destination]. There are several simple facts to put this argument to rest though:
- Fuel and car licensing taxes are applied federally, not locally, so the funds often go to highway projects. In all likelihood a cyclist will be on your local road, not your 70mph highway. Local roads are funded through local, sales and property taxes.
- Cars impose in damage to the roadway 6.5 cents per mile but put in only 2.3 cents per mile in taxes. Meanwhile, cyclists put in the same 2.3 cents per mile through sales and property taxes but impose 0.2 cents per mile in road wear. Bicyclists are in fact subsidizing the costs of cars in this regard.
- Bicycles reduce city congestion, reduce pollution, increase health and reduce oil consumption. All of the aforementioned contribute in some way to saving taxpayer money.
I expect in no way to stop hearing from motorists that cyclists don’t belong but I hope with the above facts we can start changing a few minds.
Tags: cyclists belong, fuel tax, road tax, road use
26.Dec.07 
Advocacy
