Hello Leigh, I've never been hit by a car, nor hit a dog. Staying safe on the road involves many things--personal protection, such as wearing a helmet and gloves; defensive riding, such as taking the lane as necessary, riding with the flow of traffic; staying alert, by using not only a mirror, but learning to look over one's shoulder without swerving.

Legislative action-check in the Advocacy and Safety forum
Bumper stickers--check the Market Place (I think I've seen some members advertising them for sale)
Strobe lights--lighting for your bicycle can be found in the Electronics & Gadgets forum.

As for me, I keep my eyes open and look ahead down the road. I don't run red lights or stopsigns. I have lights on a couple of my bikes. I wear a high vis vest.

It's good to hear that you are working on overcoming your fear. Don't let it keep you from enjoying your life.

Welcome to BF!

East Hill