Madrid, Barcelona put motorcycles first

City officials in Madrid and Barcelona have begun installing designated areas at intersections for motorcycles and scooters. The boxes create a safe space for two-wheelers to pull into after filtering to the front of traffic, eliminating the danger of being trapped between cars when the lights turn green and speeding up their progress through the cities.

Anyone who's ever been stuck behind an inconsiderate rider and between two SUVs at a traffic light will immediately understand the benefit these boxes bring. While we'll never see these in the US, most European cities acknowledge the fact that powered two wheelers are the quickest and most efficient way to move around their congested centers and work to actively encourage their use. These boxes will provide further visual evidence to car drivers of the benefits of switching to two wheels, highlighting their acceptance by authorities and boosting their perceived safety.

via Bikes in the Fast Lane