Why are bicyclists allowed to ride on the public streets and highways with reckless abandon!?

Everyone else who is on the public streets and highways is required by law to either wear or have their means of transportation equipped with "approved" safety equipment. But bicyclists for some reason feel they are above the law and do not have to wear any safety gear (don't try to tell me the little helmet is protective because it is not), their bicycles do not have to have any safety equipment like: brake lights (thats so one can tell if they are stopping), turn signals (so you can tell if they are going to turn and which way. hmm motorcycles have them by law), a windshield or goggles so they are not blinded by bugs (and swerve in front of unsuspecting diligent driver who is not following too close), anti-lock brakes, rear view mirrors, license plate (I know they don't have to be registered but some means of easy identification must be required). If they want to disregard safety (theirs and yours), then they should not be allowed by law to ride on the public roads and highways.