What bicyclists can do.
Bicyclists can also make the sharing-the-road concept work better by staying to their side of the road as much as possible in a way not to invite motorists to squeeze by us carelessly; e.g. by riding in the bike lanes and shoulders provided, and by riding no more than single/double file in groups. After all, many of today's roads were originally made for larger faster-moving vehicles. Nothing irritates motorists more than not being able to pass around bicyclists easily.
Additionally, bicyclists can use hand signals for turns, observe all traffic signs and signals, and make ourselves more visible with bright clothing, reflectors, and blinking lights. Furthermore, large groups of bicyclists must be careful about swarming cars and busy intersections without police escorts. We can also "keep our feet on the pedal" metaphorically speaking.
Six cautions motorists can do (from newspaper and Internet articles).
Motorists can help a lot as well. Too many bicyclists are being injured or killed carelessly by moving cars and other vehicles. Therefore, many cities and states are making it criminally illegal to harass or intimidate pedestrians and bicyclists in any way or form. Motorists will face large fines or jail time for doing so.
Stay alert for cyclists while driving anywhere, anytime.
Slow down when passing cyclists.
Provide about three feet between the vehicle and cyclist. That could mean moving over into the left lane slightly if no traffic is coming from the opposite direction.
Throwing something at a cyclist is considered a battery
Swerving toward a cyclist is an assault.
Yelling or honking at one in a harassing manner is disorderly conduct.
Motorists should know bicyclists can take down vehicle descriptions and license numbers, and file abuse charges. Many carry camera-ready cell phones.
The disparity between motorists and bicyclists on public roads can only be resolved by careful considerations and cautions by both parties. We bicyclists must be careful and diligent when riding public roads. We must safety-train ourselves before doing it, and then, stay humble and completely aware of how we are doing it. Motorists can do the same. For information on potential bicycle-vehicle collisions, see this site.
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