To the Editor:

I am writing in response to letters regarding bike lanes in Princeton. One letter mentioned that “bike lanes are safer for car drivers” in addition to being safer for cyclists. It also mentioned that bike lanes “help in preventing conflicts between bike riders and walkers” [Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee Says Bike Lanes Are Good for Everyone in Princeton,” Mailbox, Jan. 21].

The point is, roads were meant for cars and sidewalks for people walking. Cars pay for the privilege of being on a road and are bound to obey the rules. Bike riders pay nothing for this privilege and more times than not, disobey road rules. If I could have a nickel for every time I saw a bike rider run a stop sign, red light, etc. I’d be a rich woman today. And the arrogance of the bike riders is incredible, as if they owned the road and we car drivers were lucky to share it with them. At night it is difficult to see them and yet they sail along as if car drivers must defer to them.

Bike lanes might help, but the real issue is accountability on the part of the biker. Pay a fee to be on the road and be made to obey the rules. Then maybe bike lanes can be discussed.

Judith Koubek

Dempsey Avenue