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A couple weeks ago, an enraged Fox News writer dragged a New York cyclist for 200 feet through Central Park on the hood of his car. The bicyclist wasn't seriously hurt, but it could've gotten ugly very easily. In fact, there's been a crop of well-publicized anti-cyclist action recently. It can make it hard to want to take a ride anywhere you'd have to share a lane with cars. But we bicyclists can't let some angry bike-haters keep us off the road.
Cycling is still growing, especially in urban areas with arguably the highest concentration of ticked off automobilers. Which means we're going to have to learn how to share the road—which means one of these two vehicle-operating groups is going to have to be the bigger man. And I say the cyclists stand up on this one.
But in order to do so, we're going to have to put in a little effort to avoid getting into sticky situations on the road. So without further ado, here are some brief pointers cyclists should follow to keep safe from road rage while taking a ride; they should help you avoid anti-cyclism.
How Cyclists Can Stop the Hate Between Car and Bike
1. Obey all biking laws
Okay, so I'm starting off obvious. But do it—all of them. Signal on turns, come to complete stops at lights and stop signs. Don't allow any window for potential road ragers to get irked. If they think you've been slowing them down for a couple blocks, if you zip over and take an unexpected turn, that could be all it takes to ignite a little anger.
2. Be courteous
Let drivers pass you if they want to, when it's safe. Stay in the bike lanes when they're available—and flashing the occasional smile at drivers never hurt anyone either.
3. Avoid daredeviling
Sometimes it's tempting to pedal as fast as possible on a straightaway. Only do so if you're sure you won't be impeding on any car routes or roads. Don't weave through traffic unless absolutely necessary—nothing can raise the ire of a driver faster than having to slam the brakes on account of a reckless rider.
4. Keep a low profile
Some drivers just want a reason to get angry. Don't give them one. Concentrate on your riding, and take it easy. While it can be tempting to ride over to drivers who've inadvertently cut you off and give them a piece of your mind, these encounters rarely end well—see the Fox News Writer episode for further proof. Even if they're in the wrong, you're more likely to exacerbate the situation than to enlighten the driver. Keep your cool, and you'll better avoid an incident.
More on Urban Cycling:
Urban Cyclists: Stick Together, Don't Inhale?
Where Cyclists Dare: Riding the Streets of Istanbul
View and Vote: Weird Human-Powered Transport Options
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