Parking in Cycle Lanes

This video (not mine but one by The Amazing Shrinking Gaz) shows one of the major issues cyclists face - blocked cycle routes.

The trouble comes from the lack of any laws to stop people. Most cycle lanes are advisory, and even when they are "mandatory" (meaning that motorists should not drive within them) there is little to stop drivers doing this, or a lack of interest from Councils to tackle the problem.

So what dangers does this pose to cyclists?

Technically it can cause several hazards. It obstructs a clear view of the road ahead, or any pedestrians upon the pavement. It also means having to merge back into the main traffic flow, anticipating a gap and sometimes hoping that a driver will let you out. Another issue can come from how motorists read the road - they will be reading ahead in their own lane, and may possibly miss the fact there is a hazard to be avoided by others. A good driver, however, and there are still many, will read this and slow down to allow safe transit of the bicycle.

When traffic is heavily congested I am personally sure that this encourages pavement cycling, even for a short period. The cyclist seeing the blockage then anticipates that the pavement is the only way around. Momentum is king for the cyclist, so you can see the temptation. The option of merging into traffic flow is often removed (because the cars just ain't moving). It is akin to a HGV just stopping dead in the middle of the road and going to deliver it's goods.

What can be done to stop this? Changing the law so that ALL cycle lanes in on-road infrastructure are protected with double yellows and better enforcement is ideal. Widening cycle lanes is another option. However - giving delivery firms a decent place to park, free and convenient to use would do the best to curb this habit.