I live in NYC and it seems like almost every time I go out for a bike ride someone almost hits me with their car. And then if you call them out on it they act like it’s your fault. I can’t even get out for a bike ride to clear my head anymore. I’m so sick of it.

  • 𝒍𝒆𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒏@lemmy.oneEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    Probably not the answer you want, but if other road users are being dangerous around you then it would be ideal to try and look out for yourself more, if at all possible.

    At intersections make sure drivers can see you, when in traffic try and stay visible in their mirrors, avoid blind spots whenever you can, and try to “read” what others are doing with their car - as some won’t indicate to show their intentions. Speed is an important one too - if a driver was to righthook/cut you at an intersection, can you evade it or stop in time?

    Try and adapt your riding style to a way that allows you to maintain visibility of yourself, and the environment around you on the road - drivers are protected in a metal box, but we aren’t

    Edit:

    The real fix for these issues is separated bike infrastructure IMO, as well as better education for drivers about people on bikes

  • cerement@slrpnk.netEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    won’t help for clearing your head, but try hooking up with Critical Mass (you’ll at least get one day when it’s safe-ish to be on the roads)

    • toothpicks@slrpnk.netOPEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      Thanks that’s a great idea. I’ve heard of things like this but somehow never looked into the possibility that it already exists in my city.

  • Tb0n3@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    01·
    10 months ago

    Blame the other riders and delivery bikers for being a massive nuisance to everyone in the city.

    • cerement@slrpnk.netEnglish
      0·
      10 months ago

      “other riders and delivery bikers” developed those habits out of self-defense – they are the effect, not the cause

      • enki@lemm.eeEnglish
        1·
        10 months ago

        Nah, fam, that’s entitlement. Bicyclists need to follow the same traffic laws as every other vehicle on the road. Doesn’t matter if it’s a car, a bike, a scooter, or a motorcycle, if you’re not adhering to the same traffic laws as everyone else, you’re not predictable and you’re dangerous to yourself and others on the road.