Originally Posted by
Banzai
I'd say, anecdotally, that out of 10 drivers I know or encounter: 1 is angry or hostile, maybe at me, maybe at the world, maybe at his own obese self. (Jeez, there I go with more inflammatory statements. Read the disclaimer above.) A tiny fraction of 1 is a bicycle commuter, and the rest of that 1 is highly courteous and supportive of cyclists. 8 are simply completely uncomprehending on every level.
Kinda sucks to be a bicycle commuter in Del Rio, Texas, doesn't it? Glad I don't live there. In two years commuting in Boston I've been honked at four times. Twice were "Hey I'm here" honks that I really didn't need but that were well-intentioned courtesies. I've never had anyone yell at me. Are you really getting honked at, yelled at, chased to the curb, or some other tangible expression of anger or hostility -- by 1 out of every 10 motorists you encounter? Not that I doubt you, but wow, I'm sure glad I don't live in Del Rio, TX.