Tuesday, March 06, 2012

Black and yellow means danger

Nature has a fine way of warning us about dangerous things. Wasps and bees are famous for their colouration; black and yellow. As soon as you spot one your blood runs cold with fear. The only thing you can expect from a wasp is pain. Bees are slightly less aggressive, but can be just as painful. Everybody hates these nasty creatures and goes to great lengths to avoid them. (OK, bees are not bad if they keep their distance.)

These same principles apply to cyclists. They, too, dress in black and yellow. The pretext being to be highly visible and keep the rider safe. In reality this particular species of humanoid is displaying its warning to those around, that it is a threat to their health.

These individuals lack the ability to keep themselves safe, instead they they wobble aimlessly along public roads on bicycles. They are unaware of other vehicles, pedestrians, road junctions or traffic signals. If there is no danger on the road, they will create it by riding on the footpaths.

The only way to protect yourself from these threats to humanity, is be observant, keep your distance, and be prepared. Their movements are unpredictable, they can appear, unannounced, from a side street, ride in the centre of the lane, or turn across your path without warning.

Their colouration is most appropriate - they are dangerous.