mihlbach

It may have to do with the fact that I'm right outside of NYC, but in my experience, drivers respect you more when you exert dominance by riding aggressively..running lights, cutting in line, taking the lane, etc. You have to exude confidence, independence, and control. Also, dress in cycling clothes and always look like you are training for the TDF and you will own the road. A cyclist following car-rules will seem bumbling, timid, fearful, and weak to motorists and they will percieve you as an obstacle or a hazard and will instantly do whatever they can to make you a second class citizen on the road.