Craker

Any thoughts on safety for someone relatively new to riding in a city(NY City for about 9 months)? Got doored today, and although I managed to emerge relatively unscathed, I'm wondering if I need to reevaluate my riding habits.

Feeling a little shaken, very glad I was wearing my helmet.

Lanovran

First, and maybe most important, is to not let that one incident scare you away from the bike. Stick with it! That being said, don't forget that incident either. Learn from it, and keep in mind that "door zone" as you head down the street, so you can position yourself properly in the lane. The more you ride, the more attuned you'll become to your surroundings, and the more alert and prepared you'll be in case you need to make some evasive movements; however, being confident in how/when you "take the lane" can play a big part in avoiding risks. Best of luck to you, in any case!

Wilbur Bud

You could read through this, about how not to get hit by cars: https://bicyclesafe.com

bmontgomery87

If you've ridden in NYC for 9 months and just now got doored for the first time, I'd be inclined to say that you're doing okay in terms of how you're riding.

Craker

LOL, good lord. That is comforting and disturbing at the same time.

lostarchitect 

I have been riding in NYC for something like 8 years and have never been doored. Some of my advice for riding here is:

- Stay out of the door zone. Ride to the edge of the bike lane if need be, but don't go into the door zone.
- Choose your route wisely. Heavy traffic, high speed roads almost never need to be taken. There is usually a low traffic mellow road only a block out of the way, and if you go a couple blocks extra, there's probably a bike lane or path. Choose the route before you go, take bike paths whenever possible.
- You don't need to sit at lights. No one expects you to. Approach carefully, look, and go if it is safe. Wait until it is safe if there are pedestrians or cars coming. This puts you clear of right hooks and rear ends, and allows traffic to flow more smoothly. Use your judgement. Some roads, especially wide high speed ones, are never safe to cross against the light.
- Pedestrians will step right out in front of you. Get a good loud bell or horn, if you don't already have one. Some of them will still ignore it, so be cautious.
- Above all, use your judgement and ride safely and courteously. Remember that pedestrians have the right of way, steer clear of them.

jade408

You could also take the "urban biking class."

4. Street Skills Class | Bike New York

Schwinnhund

Mostly, you just need to pay more attention. Just figure that people are going to do the stupidest thing possible at the moment, and about 75% of the time, you'll be right. Be prepared. If you see someone in a car, just figure that they are going to either open the door, or pull out in front of you. Always play the "What If...." game. Also, always look closely at people and see where they are looking and what they are doing. This can give you a good idea of their intentions. If you see a cell phone...all bets are off.