Walking, Biking or Driving 'Thru' Old Mountain View

There has been increased online discussion recently about speeding in OMV.

Despite rotaries, raised medians and speed bumps on designated streets, many residents think speeding has increased. Their concern is that with added density, the problem will continue to escalate.

I live in the downtown area and have some observations. From where I sit, the problem is multifaceted.

Yes, some drivers exceed the speed limit and sail over the speed bumps–the undercarriage of their cars undoubtedly dented and scraped from slamming onto the pavement.

There are drivers who think stop signs do not apply to them and drivers who think a yellow light means “speed up” so they can dash through the red signal before the oncoming traffic begins to move. Pedestrians take heed!

For these drivers, traffic mitigation devises are challenges, obstacles to navigate on their commute. Deterrents meant for the other drivers. The drivers I’m describing are late for the train, hurrying to an appointment, own a faster more maneuverable car and feel entitled to break the rules. They are all ages, genders and ethnicity. Dub them "Defiant and Churlish."

You’ve seen them. They drive fast and unsafe as if at target practice. They glare and tap their hands on the steering wheel as pedestrians cross in front of their car, often accelerating while walkers are still within touching distance of their vehicle. They honk at the car in front the second a light turns green and cruise through stop signs, slowing but never really stopping, habitually moving ahead before their designated turn. Farmer’s Market shoppers beware!

Conversely, "Accommodating and Courteous" drivers obey the rules. They stop at lights, wait for straggling pedestrians and drive sensibly and safely through populated neighborhoods–alert to sudden car door openings or a dashing child. They understand the impact of driving a several thousand pound machine with the capacity to maim or kill. These drivers have common sense and respect for others on the road.

I think most of us all fall into both categories. I have been in the DC group more than once, but I’d like to think I mostly fit the AC label.

Pedestrians play a role in road behavior as well. According to the Vehicle Code, no pedestrian may unnecessarily stop or delay traffic while in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. As a frequent walker, I feel a sense of courtesy to the drivers I encounter. I know I have the right-of-way at intersections and don’t abuse that right. I pause before entering a crosswalk and usually nod, wave, even smile at a driver, before walking briskly across, as opposed to the walker that decelerates after entering a crosswalk, in some instances even stopping part way, self-absorbed in conversation or texting oblivious to waiting drivers. Or the person that steps off the curb as if challenging a driver to stop. (One of my pet peeves.)

On a busy pedestrian day (Farmer’s Market or A La Carte & Art), these walkers, who barely show a modicum of civility, are a problem. Why can’t they wait until they reach the opposite curb to tie their shoe or show someone what they just bought? Accumulated impatience and frustration of waiting drivers sometimes causes DC tendencies. In these scenarios, both parties are guilty.

Let’s not forget cyclists. They slow, but mostly, do not stop at stop signs. I understand the inconvenience this presents, but it does sometimes add a dimension of added vigilance to the drivers in the same intersection. Maybe it’s the simple matter of the agility of bike and rider versus a car, but frankly, I’m not partial to arrogant, aggressive cyclists with an air of privilege.

Please, do not take offense if you are a courteous walker, biker or driver.

Speeding is flat out dangerous. Increased density can only magnify the problem. I have no quick-fix solution; although I don’t think additional speed bumps is the answer. A stronger police presence and stiffer penalties for violations might be though.

All of us need to focus, be more aware of our surroundings and behave in a civil and decent manner to one another. We all share the road. Don’t be the bad apple that spoils the bunch–slow down if you are driving, but maybe speed up just a tad when you’re in a crosswalk. I’ll wave and say thanks if you do.