Originally Posted by
GovernorSilver
Interesting point. I'll be sure not to ride too close to other bike commuters on any descent if I get caught riding in the rain, so I don't crash into any ahead of me. Can't do anything about those who might be behind, though. The "silent drafter" is a known problem in my area - just the other day, I accidentally forced a cyclist off the MUP when I passed a pedestrian. I didn't know he was there when I passed the ped, he apparently decided at the same exact time to attempt the double-pass and ended up riding off the trail.
That's what "lifesavers" are for: looking over your shoulder just before manouvering. Whether you signal or not, whether it is a right or left move in your lane, always look over your shoulder. Saved me dozens of times so far.
I almost always take passing lane position in time to brake and abandon the move, if there turns out to be someone trying to pass faster without caring - whether it is another cyclist, or a car, motorcycle. Once I've moved to the left enough to pass, I just keep going straight, without moving an inch more left.