One of the aspects of driving in SA is that whenever a collision occurs we call it an 'Accident'. The morning radio traffic reports always refer to 'Accidents'. The term implies a lack of responsibility. 'It just happened'
Every collision has a cause for which someone bears responsibility, whether it be by willful intention or negligence or omission. Some have greater consequences than others.
Our attitude as road users (being cyclists and drivers) must change. Try refering to each collision as such, remove the word accident from your vocabulary. You will likely view that little bumper bashing you had recently or the red light you skipped (cycle or car) in a different light.
We all cry out (rightly so) for tougher treatment of criminals. As many people die on our roads each year as are murdered. I cannot control a potential criminal with murderous intent, but I can change my attitude to the way I use the road on my bike and in my car.
If traffic collisions are seen as an event that you are responsible for, perhaps the carnage will decrease.
I believe that this is an attitude we can change, this is a small step that will hopefully change the mindset.
When I read this thread, and keep coming back to it, my heart bleeds for the family of Craig because of the great loss and because of the avoidability of the whole situation.
Despite the fact the the driver will pay a price both emotionally and in terms of the justice system, he didn't have to if had taken greater responsibility for his life.
This is truly sad.
