Originally Posted by
AltheCyclist
Do you do give the same street-education speech to motorists that break the law as well?
Already responded to that.
Originally Posted by
Leebo
Part of the problem is the Boston drivers. They are like no other in the USA. They do ticket some bike riders for running red lights in Boston and Cambridge. Bike messengers answer to no one, I cringe when I see how they ride. Its part of the culture here to not follow rules of the road. Peds are just as bad. My way of riding is only going to be harmful to myself. When the cars don't follow the rules of the road, others can and will get hurt. To survive and be safest, I have to adapt my riding to avoid their bad behavior. 5,000 commuter miles in the last 3 years, safe. How long is your commute and is it all city? Mine is some suburbs( worse) and a little city. By and large, I follow most of the rules, but again, I do what is safest to me. If you have not drove or biked in Boston, your opinion is not valid. Maybe some other Boston riders can chime in here.
The drivers are no more aggressive in Boston than they are here in Chicago. I have rode in Boston many times before and have not noticed any more aggressiveness there than here. I know what aggressive driving is. I deal with it every day. They also ticket cyclist here. I just wish they did it more but they have to be there to witness it and take action before the word gets out. I understand you're riding, for now, effects you and your safety but that doesn't justify breaking the law. I totally agree with being aware of your surroundings and alert at all times to be safe. Have no problem with that. I also have no problem with taking the lane when it is necessary.
My commute at the moment is around 7 miles one way and it is 100% urban. No suburb riding at all. I actually hate the suburbs but that is another conversation.
Just because you are in the suburbs riding your bike doesn't justify running red lights/stop signs. I am positive the law is the same across this entire nation when talking about running red lights/stop signs.