Annotated Bibliography for Article on Safer Road Conditions

“Cyclists and pedestrians are sacrificed for the greater safety of motorists, says campaigner.”

In this British Medical Journal article, Joseph S. argues that the government in the UK has done very little in helping victims of road accidents. Using several data from sources ranging from the Red Cross and official UK figures as evidence for his arguments, Joseph’s main point is that governments should not only continue to enforce more stringent laws on drivers but should also increase funds to organizations that promote alternative transportation. For Joseph, the fact that cyclist and pedestrian casualties have increased as a result of measures put in place that have made road conditions safer for only drivers is proof that the government has neglected other means of transportation.

With a succinct article that quickly states the facts and offers solutions to the problem presented, Joseph’s article provides the general discontent of those who prefer alternative transportation to driving. In his final paragraph, Joseph even states that more people have died on the road in the UK than have died in most wars in the 20^th century. Although the evidence is not provided, Joseph’s article, although almost a decade old, presents the current and ongoing discussion still active in the cycling community.

For those who are writing for the advocacy of safer road conditions for cyclists and pedestrians, this article provides the viewpoint of a medical doctor in the UK who believes that it is the responsibility of the government and the motor industry to initiate policies for safer roads for all.

Joseph S. “Cyclists and pedestrians are sacrificed for the greater safety of motorists, says campaigner.” British Medical Journal 324.7346 (2002): 1117. Print.