Originally Posted by dwoloz
The conclusion made in the video is that when drivers see a helmet, they treat the cyclist as someone who knows what they're doing. You therefore see closer passes and less exaggerated swerves into the opposite lane.
I'm personally fine by this. I actually PREFER cars to pass closer. Am I crazy? Probably but my rationale though is that as long as the car isn't hitting me or causing me to change course its fine and the further they stay out of the opposite lane the safer it is for other drivers on the road.
I've noticed this, too. When I'm riding to or from work, on the right side of the road and riding a straight line, drivers *still* tend to move into the next lane over to pass me - even if the next lane is an on-coming lane! I'm thankful that they're trying to be considerate, but at the risk of their own lives and vehicles? Nuh-uh; no thanks.