The one variable that has been most discussed on other lists is, "Where
was the author riding in relation to the entire lane?"
As Eric alluded to in another post, where we ride in the lane - do we
leave just enough space to make unsafe passing tempting - is one of the
key factors in determining whether a motorist will indeed pass too close.
In 20 years of commuting in Madison, including 9 years as a nationally
certified bicycle safety instructor, I have never been hit or even
grazed by a car approaching from behind. The fact that the author says
he was hit twice - TWICE! - during the study makes me wondered about
his riding style. The only time I have had a crash that involved a car
traveling in the same direction was when a driver (19 year old woman
from out of town, with two friends in the car) turned into a driveway
right in front of me. I rarely am passed with less than 3 feet - maybe
once every two months. The average passing distance is probably more
like 5-6 feet.
--
Robbie Webber
Bicycle Friendly Communities Coordinator
Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin
www.bfw.org
608-251-4456 (office)
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