“For Paul, let’s say an end to motorized violence.” It is through this call from the FUB (French Federation of Bicycle Users) that hundreds of cyclists gathered throughout France this Saturday, October 19. They were around fifty in Valence and around forty in Privas to observe a minute of silence in tribute to Paul. A 27-year-old young man killed this Tuesday in Paris by a motorist while he was riding his bike.
L’association Modal (soft and alternative mobility in central Ardèche) affiliated with the FUB, believes that the life of cyclists is “committed daily by the unacceptable behavior of certain motorists.” Its president, Patrick Midoux regrets these incivilities: “overtaking without respecting the safety distance, excessive speed of cars etc. these incivilities exist, they can be traumatic and dangerous. We also see trivialized violence.” “But it’s a minority. Most motorists are respectful,” he nuances.
According to Patrick Midoux, these incidents and conflicts are partly linked to a lack of infrastructure. The Modal association is calling for concrete measures to protect cyclists: more cycle paths, a reduction in city speeds for cars, etc.
France
