I try to work "with" cars while on the road. I take the lane if there is nowhere else for me to go (i.e., shoulder) or if the road is so narrow that it would make it unsafe for a motorist to pass me. If I were in a situation where cars were piling up behind me, I would try to pull over and let them pass. This is a courtesy. I give, you give (hopefully ).

Of course, a law doesn't physically protect me from that 2-ton SUV so I need to be sensible. But I shouldn't let vehicles revoke all of our rights either. We need to carefully 'remind' them of the rules.

Yes, people are in a hurry. But who's fault is that? All together now... Now I don't like the "too bad" attitude, but there is some truth to it. If I am in a car going the speed limit of 35 but someone behind me is in a hurry and wants to go 55 should I speed up? Should I get out of the way? No, I shouldn't.

If someone is lingering behind me and will not pass I try to help them. Hey, they are giving me space and I appreciate that. I'll either pull over a bit or watch for a comfortable opening and wave them by. I also try to indicate appreciation for their courtesy.

Just think, if you do something nice for that blowhard driver one day, they might change their attitude towards cyclists a bit.

-Dave