Maybe its because I've gotten older, and maybe its because I've gotten wiser (though I doubt it), but "close calls" occur far less often these days. I really think that most so-called "close calls" are the result of lapses in vigilance and/or overly aggressive or brazen riding habits, and I will be first in admitting that for most of my life I really believed that "I can get away with that" most often, even when I should have been more aware or cautious.

These days though I expect that every potential threat could be real, and I recognize that most people who's path I cross will be in more of a hurry, be paying far less attention, and care less about my safety than I. I'm glad I was fortunate enough to live long enough to actually appreciate being able to accept responsibility for myself, but I still keep an eye out for the crazies out there.

Ride (and walk) Safe!