Austin Has Failed Bicyclists Miserably

Dear Editor,
   Yes, helmets prevent serious injuries, but the city's knee-jerk reaction to former Mayor Todd's bicycling accident only underscores a failure to address all the issues of bicycle safety ["Shall We Bike," News, May 26]. The city has paid lip service to bicycle issues by adding (or planning to add) recreational bike trails but has failed miserably to make Austin streets safer for people to bike to everyday destinations, such as work or to stores. Bicyclists know the danger zones and have been telling city leaders for years what needs to be fixed, but they have not listened. They would rather spend money on expensive studies instead of acting on the problems that have already been identified.
   If the city leaders are really serious about preventing head injuries, they should go ahead and require helmets for people in cars and motorcycles. Let's not forget the most dangerous form of transportation in Austin, walking! Since the city has completely failed to make the city pedestrian-friendly, they should make pedestrians wear helmets and body armor as well!