Back to the topic, I don't think anyone can tell OP he shouldn't give up, or validate his decision, without at least having ridden there. Even then, what other factors are involved, not necessarily related to cycling?
All I can say is it IS dangerous, and can be vexing - if it's not worth it just stop.
Originally Posted by
homechicken
My belief is that everyone should follow the traffic laws and be aware of their surroundings, however, that is not reality. Prudence would suggest that the most vulnerable should take the most care to avoid trouble, even if they are in the right, because they are the ones most likely to get hurt in the event of an accident. That's just a fact that cannot change. It doesn't matter who is right, a 30 pound bike will lose every time against a 3000 pound car. I'm not saying to be inconspicuous, just extra vigilant, because we know motorists are not often very alert to their surroundings.
And if you think having a gun with you on your bike makes motorists equally vulnerable, you're wrong. Not only might they be armed also, but they're still in a 3000+ pound car and can squash you. If you want to be armed for self defense against theives, robbers, etc, that's fine with me and I think you should have that right, but to do it in the hopes it'll disuade a motorist from being rude or oblivious is wishful thinking. If they are intentionally being rude, they are obviously beligerent and could escalate matters by trying to run you over or shoot first. If they're oblvious, they'll likely have no idea why you're flashing a gun and try to run you over or shoot first, or they may just call the cops. In either instance, you'll have a hard time proving you had just cause to flash or pull your weapon unless you have witnesses, and even then unless there has been an obvious intentional threat to run you over, you'll have no legal reason to do so.
The bolded is wrong, legally, morally, and in practice. The only part that is true is that the cyclist is in the most danger. It's not even true that "a 30 pound bike will lose every time"!
Obviously, everyone should look out for themselves. Yet, the people who should take the
most care are those who can cause the most damage.
I also find it highly dubious that a motorist, feeling secure enough in their anonymity and equipment to threaten another person or to even assume that the potential entitles them, would be so belligerent seeing the other party armed. Do you really think you, or any belligerent motorist, would disregard a sidearm until the person draws and shoots it??
It is a mute point though, since we mostly don't ride with open carry. Hence the jokes, and fantasy.