I think stories like this illustrate the "those that do" vs. "those that don't" mentality. The subject has a reason that compells him to ride. The writer (I'm guessing) does not ride and more over does not seem to be able to recitfy why someone would, in light of the "danger". In my experience this is the biggest hurdle to over come in trying to get someone to give commuting by bike a chance. They need to do it for themselves, like most on this forum. You/ Me /We as commuting advocates cannot provide the desire to do something that is "harder". Cycling will always be "harder" to the majority because it requires a mindset that is not entirely centered around comfort/ease/satus. My extended family's (wife's side and mine) see me as a nut who takes his life in his hands each time I commute to work via bike. I see it differently and know all of the positive things that cycling provides me. I am as safe as I can be, but also understand as with all aspects of life, there are risks. I do not believe most people even view the bicycle as a transportation option. Philadelphia (where I commute) has added a slew of new bike lanes over the last few years. They make great parking spots for people or an even better a way to pass other motorists on the right when your really in a hurry!