Being a nicer cyclist

[erikgarrison.livejournal.com]

What are some ways that cyclists can positively engage drivers, gain their respect, and encourage them to use caution when they are sharing the road with cyclists?

Comments

Re: Some things I do

[sparkgrrl658.livejournal.com]

yeah, massachusetts is an interesting place like that i've found. i've driven in some of the "worst" places (RI, LA, etc) but mass is the only one where people literally are sometimes homicidal maniacs when they get in their cars, and i'm not exempt from this. (tho i always find it directed at other drivers - maybe i feel there the playing ground is even, heh)

still, i mostly have the patience of a saint with just about everything in life and i'd always rather wait a few extra seconds than risk killing someone. seems obvious to me, and it's sad that it isn't that way for everyone. i'll never understand all the freaking hurrying all the time, but then again, i'm late to everything and simply don't care anymore :p

Re: Some things I do

[m00n.livejournal.com]

I've found that driving more patience can actually be fun, whereas driving with impatience feels like it's taking years off my life (both immediately and down the road!)

One nice thing I've found about biking: My perpetual lateness actually causes me to get more exercise (because I bike faster) rather than just more stress.

Re: Some things I do

[sparkgrrl658.livejournal.com]

that's an excellent point!

in being blatantly honest, i wish i didn't sweat so easily & wasn't scared to death of riding a bike here!

Re: Some things I do

[m00n.livejournal.com]

Talk to pensivewombat. She sweats a lot and was terrified of riding in traffic, but I got her to make the switch eventually and now she swears she doesn't know how she lived without it.

Re: Some things I do

[sparkgrrl658.livejournal.com]

:D

this cracked me up & is simultaneously awesome.