Quote:
Originally Posted by cashflyer
The government collects a user fee from me in the form of taxes at the gas pump.
Why should cyclists have a 'right' to free access to roads?
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Going back well before the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956, interstates and local road systems were designed 99% for use by cars only, but taxes for maintaining and patrolling were paid for by all citizens, including the cyclists without cars.
It's a subsidy.
Despite their tax contributions to roads, cyclists get pushed off to the side into the gravel with few protections from the dangers of traveling on public thoroughfares. Maybe a line drawn in some sections if they are lucky.
There is no equal access.
Then there is the argument for usage fees:
Q:Who causes the most damage to public roads? A:Heavy vehicles.
But registration and/or insurance isn't based on GVWR as it should, so all drivers pay and subsidized the biggest heavies on the road.
Bicycles are..cough..a bump in the road in terms of wear 'n tear.