this post was submitted on 23 Nov 2023
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utility cycling

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I live in NYC and it seems like almost every time I go out for a bike ride someone almost hits me with their car. And then if you call them out on it they act like it's your fault. I can't even get out for a bike ride to clear my head anymore. I'm so sick of it.

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[โ€“] lemann@lemmy.one 11 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago) (2 children)

Probably not the answer you want, but if other road users are being dangerous around you then it would be ideal to try and look out for yourself more, if at all possible.

At intersections make sure drivers can see you, when in traffic try and stay visible in their mirrors, avoid blind spots whenever you can, and try to "read" what others are doing with their car - as some won't indicate to show their intentions. Speed is an important one too - if a driver was to righthook/cut you at an intersection, can you evade it or stop in time?

Try and adapt your riding style to a way that allows you to maintain visibility of yourself, and the environment around you on the road - drivers are protected in a metal box, but we aren't

Edit:

The real fix for these issues is separated bike infrastructure IMO, as well as better education for drivers about people on bikes

[โ€“] toothpicks@slrpnk.net 4 points 11 months ago

Thanks. Maybe I'll try to get better at it. But usually it just makes me less likely to take the bike out at all. I usually end up just getting more stressed when I bike so idk if it's worth it right now