In the long run, establishing a traffic order where motor vehicles and various non-motorized vehicles adhere to their respective rules is crucial. This matter encompasses enhancing people’s awareness of regulations, the law, and safety, as well as fostering good habits and conscious behavior. Additionally, it involves investing in and planning urban traffic infrastructure, refining relevant regulations and systems, and implementing meticulous and scientific urban governance.

A recent article in the Workers’ Daily highlighted a growing concern during rush hours, where bicycles, e-bikes, and shared bikes flood the roads. “Some riders suddenly swerve to overtake, zipping by so fast that it’s hard to react,” one commuter noted. This chaotic racing on open roads has become a significant cause of cycling-related traffic accidents. Over recent years, urban streets have seen an increasing number of cyclists, resulting in reckless behaviors like racing, group traffic violations at red lights, and prolonged occupation of motor vehicle lanes, consequently posing dangers to road safety.

Cycling is recognized as a green and low-carbon mode of transportation that aligns with today’s strong values surrounding environmentalism and healthy living. Many people now choose cycling as their main means of commuting or exercising, even considering it a trendy lifestyle. While we certainly encourage and support green and healthy cycling, we must also acknowledge the safety issues stemming from inappropriate riding behaviors. For instance, some cyclists ignore red lights, ride against traffic, or occupy motor lanes. Others ride closely together in a manner reminiscent of racing, disregarding right-of-way rules and turning public streets into racing circuits. Similar reckless behavior is observed among non-motorized vehicles, including e-bikes and hoverboards, which also contribute to traffic chaos. The problems stemming from non-motorized vehicles have notably impacted people’s travel experiences, threatened public safety, and unfortunately led to numerous traffic accidents and fatalities.

The issues associated with non-motorized vehicles have persisted for some time. Some cyclists lack awareness of safety and regulations, often thinking, “If an accident happens, it’s always the motor vehicle’s fault.” There are also ambiguous areas within traffic laws, such as the regulation that e-bikes should not exceed 15 km/h in bike lanes, yet there are no specific speed limits or safety requirements for traditional bicycles. This ambiguity makes it difficult for enforcement agencies to apply precise measures and maintain effective deterrents. Furthermore, some traffic infrastructure is poorly planned; certain road segments have overly dense traffic signals, prompting cyclists to take risks and run red lights, while others lack dedicated bike lanes, forcing cyclists to share space with motor vehicles, leading to further contention.

The tragic recent event of a boy being killed after falling while riding his bike has sparked significant attention and increased focus on traffic rules, road rights, and cycling safety. Amid this discourse, some previously overlooked regulations were reiterated, such as prohibiting youths under 12 from riding on highways. In response, local authorities in cities like Beijing and Shanghai have stepped up efforts to regulate racing behaviors on urban roads and are enforcing penalties for violations. In Sichuan’s Chengdu, guidelines have been introduced to clarify speed limits on bike paths, including establishing signs for safe riding at a maximum speed of 15 km/h.

If we liken urban roads to a web, maintaining safety and order necessitates collective accountability from all parties involved. While initiatives combating issues like drunk driving, seatbelt neglect, and distracted driving continue to cultivate a culture of responsible driving, certain non-motorized behaviors appear to be holding back overall progress.

In the long term, it is imperative to create a traffic environment where motor vehicles and non-motorized vehicles each comply with their respective rules. This task involves enhancing public awareness of regulations and safety, fostering responsible behaviors, and improving the scientific planning of urban traffic infrastructure and governance.

Building consensus around harmonious traffic and respecting public spaces requires contributions from all sides. No single party should be viewed as a weak link in this endeavor. It is our sincere hope that every traveler approaches safety with reverence, ensuring they can leave home joyfully and return safely.