Originally Posted by
PeddlePhile
I live in a metropolitan area where automobile drivers are probably the number one danger to bicyclists. We have bike lanes, but I would never trust to ride in them. It really wouldn't be a good or safe idea. People here don't use them. Instead they ride on the sidewalk...far safer.
I never really understood that concept...putting people on bicycles in the same path as motorists. Like Oil and Water, the two don't seem to mix.
Riding on sidewalks is not only dangerous, it's against the law in almost all major cities. You risk hitting and injuring pedestrians. Bicycles are considered vehicles and belong on the roads or paths designated for bicycles.
If you are experiened and skilled in riding, being on the roads are safe. I ride along at 20 mph and generally keep up or ride at nearly the pacve of traffic. Ride in a straight line, look ahead to predict various events, give signals and warnings to traffic, and stay visable. Those are the basic rules.