Originally Posted by
kiwigem
Doohickie, you have a fair point. They don't specify, but I do know the area of town, and it is a major thoroughfare where attempting to squeeze to the side isn't really an option on most stretches. Imagine a four lane road lined with strip malls and you'll get the idea. I applaud everyone who does brave the VC world as I view all of them as intrepid pioneers for the rest of us who are too afraid of drivers' ineptitude. This is our town's second fatality (that I know of) in just a few months, and while we can't be sure about the cyclist in this circumstance, the last was a daily commuter practically dressed in reflective tape and doing everything right. Around here, people get bullied for claiming the lane.
I guess I need to count my blessings. I can get around town pretty well without riding on the major arterials for the most part. My 17 mile commute only has about 4 blocks worth busy roads. I usually try to avoid the busier streets, but on the occasions where I have used them, I get pretty decent consideration from drivers, with only a couple close calls. Around here I do see people on the major roads riding up against the curb; it just makes me cringe. If a rider is not up to taking the lane, perhaps the sidewalk is a safer place, but then there is the danger of motor traffic turning across the sidewalk. I think every city has its own "feel" or "norms" with regard to bikes. I rode in Arlington, VA, and Washington, DC, for the first time last week and it was definitely different that it is here in Fort Worth.