Rude Drivers

There are some areas in my town where I have to ride on the sidewalk, because the suburban moms who drive around can't seem to understand the concept of a bike lane. It's just a matter of my own personal safety at that point. As cyclists, I think that, unfortunately, it's up to us to be the alert ones. As long as you're doing what you're meant to be doing, no one should give you any trouble or hit you. If they do, though, you're going to be in much worse shape than they are. So just ride defensively if you're going through a busy area, and always be alert.

While I do ride my bicycle versus driving my car, in most cases. I always make sure to be courteous towards cyclists when I'm in my car, as I know how it feels to be a cyclist. Cyclists are far more vulnerable on the roads, and drivers need to be more sensitive about this matter.

I've had motorists pull along side me on desolate roads and curse me. Why? Who knows? I wasn't holding them up or swerving in front of them. I've also had others just about take me out with their side view mirrors. I guess some people are so important that other people's lives don't matter. Hmm? Be careful out there.

The problem is that drivers see cyclists as an inconvenience. Which, I suppose, we are in a way. But the thing they should remember is that for the few seconds they're troubled by us, most of the time we're nowhere near them - and really, we're the ones who are in a more dangerous position thanks to the fact that we don't have as much protection on a bike as they have in a car. You just have to learn to be the best cyclist you can be and ignore anybody who's rude. Don't let them ruin your day!

I am fortunate enough to live in a country where cycling is the norm, so I have yet to deal with rude drivers.
Do you feel that these conflicts arise out of a lack of information about the traffic laws concerning bikes?

LeHvass said:

I am fortunate enough to live in a country where cycling is the norm, so I have yet to deal with rude drivers.
Do you feel that these conflicts arise out of a lack of information about the traffic laws concerning bikes?

Yes, many who honk think bikes are suppose to be used on sidewalks.....Its against the law and extremely dangerous, but some think it is what we are "suppose" to do.