If you commute within the typical large American urban center, then cycling can be dangerous. You have bus drivers and cabbies that intentionally try to cut you off. Heck! A lot of drivers try to cut you off! Many drivers don't want you in front of them. Sometimes, they'll go out of their way to prevent it. Some drivers feel as though cyclists should not be riding in the streets or sharing the road with them and they'll openly demonstrate their opinion when driving by passing too close, cutting you off, or by driving in the bicycle lane. I've even seen drivers look at me while parking, and as I'm approaching, they then suddenly act like they're going to open their door as I attempt to pass. I guess this must be some kinda scare tactic or something.

Though some days are riddled with idiots all over the place (including other cyclists). Most days are fairly uneventful and routine. Just follow the state rules for vehicles and wear protective gear and clothing. Never ride at night without the proper reflective gear and lights. Always ride with the traffic and be cautious whenever "taking the lane". That's cautious NOT tentative!...Whenever you take the lane, take it!

Don't ride on sidewalks!

As a general rule, the further away you get from the urban center, the safer cycling gets.

Order of Danger:

Large Urban Centers > Small Urban Centers > Suburban Roads Paved > Suburban Roads Unpaved

* Danger meaning increased stress level due to traffic. In each case above, usually you'll have less traffic as you go from left to right.