Big Metal Things
You won’t get everyone following the rules. Take a look at drivers. And the “bad name” is more complex than just stopping at a red light- it’s a generalization from a car-centric culture.
Once you’ve biked in a city you quickly realize one rule trumps all road rules: self preservation.
However, people who bike may have varying opinions on how to safely keep away from the big metal things. And it’s chaotic. Why? Because the infrastructure and rules are built around cars, not vulnerable road users.
If you really look at what people are doing (without judgement) you may catch a glimpse of where the real problem lies.
Yes, there will always be those to do what they can get away with. But perhaps some are just doing what they feel they need to get away with to get to work or school or back home safely.
I still take care to follow the road rules, but I’ll also take care of myself if needed.
Bike mirrors are great! Lets you keep an eye on the bleepity-bleeps coming up behind you (i.e., everybody). Plus, when no one is behind you, you can bike in the middle of the street! I own the road, oh yeah!