Задание №23059 ЕГЭ по Английскому языку

The Reality of Being a Bicycle Commuter

No discourse on transportation in New York would be comprehensive without addressing one of the most cost-effective, convenient, and increasingly popular modes of getting around the city - cycling.

Approximately 450,000 bike journeys occur daily across the five boroughs, with one out of every five trips being made by commuters. The city now boasts over 1,000 bike lanes, a number that has recently doubled compared to a decade ago. 

As a freelancer, there were days when taking the train was financially challenging, compelling me to invest in an inexpensive bicycle. Once I started riding, I found it preferable to the train. It was faster and more enjoyable. The best part of biking, for me, is the sheer delight of witnessing the island's natural beauty every day and the sense of being in control of my own destiny. I have a rough estimate of the travel time from Point A to Point B without any issues. It is a more invigorating experience than a cup of morning caffeine, and I eagerly anticipate the ride home every day, regardless of my fatigue. The experience energizes me and helps me stay fit. It saves me money and gets my blood pumping with endorphins.

Cycling is gaining popularity among New Yorkers, with 40% supporting the expansion of protected bike paths in the city. However, this doesn't mean that everything is rosy for bike commuters in New York City. While improvements are being made, there is more that the city can do to ensure safer streets.

Undoubtedly, pedestrians pose the greatest challenge for cyclists. Drivers, in general, are predictable; they abide by traffic rules and have no more desire to collide with cyclists than cyclists have with them. Pedestrians, on the other hand, can be chaotic. They cross streets when they shouldn't, walk in bike lanes with their backs turned to bike traffic, and unexpectedly step into a bike lane just three feet in front of you in the middle of a block, leaving you with no time to react. It was precisely this kind of incident that resulted in a mild concussion that sent me to the hospital a few years ago (fortunately, I recovered and got back on my bike).

To enhance the safety of cycling (and walking), we need to focus on educating pedestrians and issuing citations. Pedestrians, especially tourists, should be aware of the existence of bike lanes and the consequences of entering them, such as receiving a ticket, getting injured, or even losing their lives. Instructional videos should be available at major airports. I am inclined to believe that individuals from non-major U.S. cities are less familiar with bike lanes compared to tourists from other parts of the world. I think most people fail to respect cyclists and prioritize their safety. Pedestrians and motorists, for the most part, do not grasp the daily challenges faced by cyclists. It should be mandatory for everyone to cycle, walk, and drive in this city for a full day to foster mutual respect. Simple actions such as checking for cyclists before opening car doors, crossing the street, making a U-turn, or using turn signals would greatly enhance the cycling experience for everyone involved, including motorists and pedestrians.

The city should adopt a more cyclist-friendly approach as it would significantly reduce car and train traffic. Those LED signs that provide traffic delay notifications? Perhaps they could also remind drivers to check for cyclists before exiting their vehicles.