I recently have completed a six part series on annoying and dangerous motorist behaviors and as promised, I now will start a six part series on the riding behaviors of cyclists that are annoying to motorists and dangerous to motorists and often even more so to cyclists. This is a non-exhaustive list, and with the exception of only two of the listed behaviors (#2 and #6) I regret to say that, at one time or another, I have been guilty of all the other listed behaviors.
Below are the six behaviors, each of which will be the focus of a separate blog:
1. Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs – the one thing that probably makes motorists the maddest;
2. Riding without a helmet – although not necessarily dangerous to motorists, it is so dangerous to cyclists that it had to make the list;
3.Riding without adequate lights or reflective devices – obviously this is applicable in early morning hours before the sun rises or dusk or later as the sun sets – just not a good idea for anyone not to be seen by drivers;
4.Riding more than two abreast or otherwise not getting in single file to allow cars to pass – probably the second most common complaint of motorists although, as will be discussed in more detail in the blog, it is not always safe for the cyclist to move as far to the right as "possible;"
5. Talking on the cell phone when riding – enough said; and
6. Riding against the traffic – many people, generally non-cyclists, think riding against the traffic is a good idea. It is not. It is unlawful and unsafe.
I will go into more detail regarding each of these cycling behaviors over the next couple of weeks.
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