In a perfect world ALL motorists would have to bike commuter for a month before even applying for a license. And all drivers would slow down by 5-10 mph.

That said, I'm dismayed by how many cyclists make themselves less safe than possible. I use lights all the time, both for commuting and for fast road rides. At this time of year, when the sun angles are bad, I can't understand roadies in all black kit with no lights. Head scratcher for me. And I'm talking people on very expensive bikes, so $ isn't an issue.

With a wife and a child, I really do my best to not be run over. Front and rear lights, bright jerseys and/or clothing.

I do have to drive sometimes these days to drop my newborn son at day care. I'm much, much more aware of peds and cyclists than the average driver AND I usually drive below the speed limit. I simply don't trust most drivers, even when I'm in a rather large truck.

That said...I nearly turned in front of a cyclist last week. Driving slowly, very aware of the traffic/road situation, but I simply didn't see him. Dark morning and he was in dark clothes without a headlight. I nearly turned in front of him, after making a full stop (I didn't have a light or a sign, left off of a main, busy road). I said a prayer for the guy, as I think many other drivers would have been driving too fast and/or while looking at a phone and hit him.