Originally Posted by backinthesaddle
According to the article the rider left the bike lane into the roadway to pass and that's where she was hit from behind. My friend happened on the accident after the fact and that's what she heard too.
So I'd like to know what your understanding is about leaving the bikelane into the main roadway. I always thought it was acceptable, at least if you're passing another bike. I'll probably end up posting this question in A & S too, but I thought I would float it here first before I dare to enter into A & S land.
The cyclist has a right to the lane. Read the DMV laws about passing a cyclist, you'll find that most have no clue, including the cops. The car was in the wrong, period. Honking the horn does not give you right of way. The driver is required to pass only when there is room and at a safe distance. I got brushed going up 84 and I was on the shoulder. That being said, the cyclist has no protection, and a driver usually is not as concerned and doesnt always give safe distance. Ya gotta ride defensively all the time. I hope she recovers fully, and that the driver is a bit more cautious in the future.