Should cycling be part of the driving test?

If, as part of the driving test in addition to the theory and observation tests, should there be an hour or two of going out on the road with an instructor to learn about proper techniques for cycling in traffic?

Like in motorbike lessons where a radio is used to give instructions, on the bicycle you could be told things such as “You’re coming up to a traffic island now so shoulder check and move out to the primary position.”

There could also be a separate theory section for cyclists riding technique that goes through all major issues for cyclists.

The reason I think this could be beneficial is that a lot of drivers simply do not understand why cyclists do a lot of the things they do and become aggravated because of it. Also, they have no idea of what it feels like to have a car pass far too close.

I’m not sure what to do about people who can’t or are too unfit to ride a bike. Possibly there should be medical exemptions. Other pedal vehicles could be made available for people who can’t balance on a bike such as tricycles.

Is it at all feasible and do others here think it would actually work to create more harmony on the roads?

Quite possibly and they should be made to do a cbt on a motorbike before passing car test but it’ll never happen

No, but everyone should spend a week in a wheel chair to realise how tough it is and how shitty you’re treat in public.

Actually, as a motorcyclist as well I’d be in favour of that.

Maybe there should be a pedestrian test as well so drivers learn that when turning off a road pedestrians have right of way and the correct response is not to honk and carry on without slowing down.

Just to make sure all bases are covered, the driving test should include pedestrian training, cylcing proficiency, motorbike CBT, HGV licence, flying a light aircraft, seamanship, train driving, operating a submarine and 25m breast stroke certificate … only then should anyone be deemed fit to drive a car

See – now there’s your problem – train drivers don’t “drive”, they just eat their sandwiches and complain about their wages.

Valid point about the CBT/cycling for ALL drivers though. And anything YOU do on the road should be reflected on any license you hold.
So Red light? 3 points and fine same as a car/bike, road/pavement/road – 3 points, etc……….

Should people spend a week driving as part of their cycling proficiency?

SBZ
+1

the driving test should include pedestrian training, cylcing proficiency, motorbike CBT, HGV licence, flying a light aircraft, seamanship, train driving, operating a submarine and 25m breast stroke certificate …

I’d settle for teaching them how to control a car…..

No but bikeability level 1&2 should be part of the curriculum in primary schools and level 3 in secondary schools

Yes every new driver should be forced to ride a few miles in rush hour traffic!

Quite possibly and they should be made to do a cbt on a motorbike before passing car test but it’ll never happen

Is that the one where they teach you to use the thin white lanes on the motorway?