In my own experience as a motorist around cyclists, I personally am more comfortable driving around cyclists who look like they know what the heck they're doing. Cyclists wearing helmets generally fit into that category. Other signs include a steady cadence and the ability to pedal in a straight line.

I give them a safe, comfortable berth.

Those I don't trust not to awkwardly wobble their way into my lane I give an extra wide berth.

I have a suspicion the helmet-wearing cyclists aren't being endangered, but rather the non-helmet-wearing cyclists are being avoided.

Any thoughts?