Originally Posted by
cooker
Not necessarily safer. Most cycling collisions occur at intersections, and even if you're on the sidewalk you still have to cross intersections. In fact sidewalk cycling may be more dangerous, because motorists at intersections and entering or exiting driveways may be less likely to notice you. Plus you may be endangering pedestrians.
Here in Toronto we had two sidewalk cyclists killed within days of each other a couple of years ago. I'll search for the link.
As I learn more about this...I'm beginning to realize that bicyclists fall into at least (maybe more) distinct categories.
1). The casual, Bermuda shorts wearing, sandals type bicyclist just enjoying his or her bike for the fun and exercise on his or her $80 bicycle
2). The avid, designer tights wearing, $800+ bicycle, super biker who prides himself in being able to pace with motor traffic.
I think I fall into the first category so maybe it's why I have a different perspective.
I think the safety of riding on the road varies greatly from location to location.
In South Florida, driving a bike on the roadway with motorists is a death wish bound to be full filled sooner than later.