Three cheers for the garbage man!
 

I read a lot rants about drivers in the forums, and wanted to share a good experience that happened yesterday.

A little after noon, I'm on my way to one of my PT jobs. At the intersection of two congested city two-lanes (not even wide enough for on-street parking), a garbage truck makes a left in front of me, safely and with plenty of room. I make a right, behind the garbage truck. Stinky, but at least it wasn't leaking anything. And I only had two blocks before I had to turn again.

Traffic is moving around 15 mph. Suddenly, the garbage truck stops. Not a can in sight. As I peek around the left, an arm comes out the driver's window and waves me by. Passing the driver, I waved back and called out "Thank you!" The truck started up and followed me down the block.

Made my day!

I wish the Sanitation workers in NYC were as courteous both to other vehicles and cyclists. Usually on their pickup days they have no regard for the cars queuing up behind the truck even when there is sufficient room for them to pull over to the side and let cars pass.
I have a friend at work who is married to a Sanitation worker and even she says that they are very discourteous.

Have had similar experiences with the dump truck drivers near my office where major freeway work has been going on for the last 3 years. Just goes to show that drivers can be responsible and alert.