While I don't condone not following the law, most lights where I live are there due to car traffic, and make little to no sense for cyclists. So it's no wonder they're not respected much. I'd prefer the red lights many places to instead count as either a stop sign or yield for cyclists.
But with that said, all statistics I've ever seen points to cyclists being better at following the laws than drivers (have you never driven above the speed limit?), especially in cities where the infrastructure makes sense for cyclists. Additionally, a cyclist breaking the law most often only put their own life at risk, compared to someone in a car doing it.
> I'd prefer the red lights many places to instead count as either a stop sign or yield for cyclists
This is law in some places. It's known as the Idaho stop[0]. One of the most sensible laws IMO. It's almost like whoever came up with it has ridden a bike on the road like at least once.
Drivers who think others who aren't operating motorvehicles should have to follow the same rules need to grow up. They want all the privilege with none of the responsibility. I firmly believe the roads would be better for everyone if cycling proficiency was a requirement for even applying for a driving licence.
