[B’ Spokes another case for improved education for drivers?]
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Via Washington Post
Can I get some input from the bicycling community? On any sunny weekend, the roads in upper Montgomery County are filled with dozens of cyclists, many of whom appear to be part of organized clubs. The roads on which these cyclists travel are narrow, hilly and winding. There are blind corners and restricted sight lines. The speed limits vary from 30 to 50 mph, and most of the roads have double yellow lines. The bikers travel between 5 and 25 mph.
When I am driving on one of these roads at the speed limit and encounter cyclists, what am I to do? First, I have to hope I don’t come upon one around a corner or hill and have to brake suddenly to avoid a collision. I could then remain behind the bike while waiting to reach a safe and legal area to pass. But if I do, I risk the possibility of another motorist traveling at the posted speed hitting me from behind.
I could try to squeeze by while staying in my lane, but then I risk sideswiping the bike. Since many cyclists ride side by side or seem unable to hug the edge of the road without swerving, this is not a safe option. I can take a chance and cross a double yellow line to pass, which is illegal and poses the possibility of a head-on collision with a vehicle in the oncoming lane.
Many cyclists loudly insist that motor vehicles alter their behavior and “share the road.” But these upcounty cyclists are not sharing; they are placing themselves and others in danger. Is it worth your life or the lives of others to exercise your perceived right?
James Rush, Gaithersburg
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/a-clash-of-motorists-and-bicyclists/2011/05/09/AFMvhQ4G_story.htmloldId.20110516113446360
Biking in Baltimore