John E

I beg to differ. Riding in the parking area out of traffic greatly increases one's chances of not being seen by either overtaking or oncoming motorists. It can also require dangerous zigzag and merge operations. I generally prefer to take the lane, moving aside to permit someone to overtake me when and only when I can safely do so, or when I can take the parking area for an entire block and safely use it as a surrogate bike lane. The other thing that really helps is to have and to use a mirror.

Having said all that, I in no way blame the cyclist. I am always looking for lessons learned and ways to improve my own safety on the road. I have what I consider to be a healthy, objective fear of traffic. I hope the police find the motorist and the judge has the political will to throw the book at him/her. Hit-and-run drivers have an interesting way of courageously turning themselves in the next day, after their blood alcohol content has subsided.