Coun. Len Bracko, you lost my vote!
“Municipalities are wasting money on bylaws,” you stated, making a good, intelligent point. However, the bike helmet law came to mind and I recall how you pushed for it based upon anecdotal evidence (subjective), a weak endorsement by Dr. Gerry Preddy (not relevant) and your passionate bias on the matter (also not relevant).
I also did not find a single helmet manufacturer whose product literature supports the benefits of such a bylaw (oh oh) - it was counter-indicated (oops). How do we reason that a flimsy plastic encased foam cup on your head will stop anything more than a skin abrasion, let alone a broken neck or head contusion? As an ex teacher of mine, we were taught to gather solid evidence, reason the pros and cons, then argue. Did you forget this? Have you noticed the reduction in bicyclists since? I guess we will get fatter. Thanks. Good job. Vote lost.
To get my vote back: lobby for a law compelling all drivers to take a regular refresher test. Focusing on a cellphone ban attacks a symptom and misses the cause — bad driver habits. This solution would improve driver skills and contribute to a reduction of issues, such as cell use amongst the multitude or other more frequent and serious issues that occur without a cellphone. We can develop safer road conditions for all, including bicyclists and pedestrians. Safer drivers can also mean a reduction with insurance premiums; at the very least you might garner support of that industry, perhaps even stimulating the growth of a new driver education service linked with this bylaw.
This is a comprehensive route to the problem, whereas a cellphone ban is merely short sighted.
Teo Zanetic, St. Albert
