Road Hazards

Guys. In trucks. Pulling trailers. Arrrggggghhhhh!

Today, as I road through bucolic Bowling Green in the early morning sunshine, I encountered numerous cars, motorcycles, and non-towing pick-up trucks of a variety of sizes. There was no problem. In fact, many of the drivers went out of the way to insure that our paths crossed safely – waiting patiently as I crossed the driveway they intended to enter, waving me through as they paused at a stop sign. BUT, then there were the GITPT (see above).

I’m not sure if they believe that they have the right of way regardless of the situation, or if the law of physics impedes their ability to stop at signs, lights, and cross streets. The most ironic encounter was the driver of a white pick-up, pulling a trailer loaded with a mower, who looked me directly in the eye and then proceeded to pull out OF THE CEMETERY directly into my path. Maybe he thought that my proximity to a cemetery would make the accident less traumatic, save tax dollars by not calling an ambulance, and instead send me and my beloved lil’ red directly into an open grave. After having a few close encounters today, I think that I have to send GITPT a message. I recognize that I must speak slowly and use small words.

BIKES AND THE RIDER HAVE A RIGHT TO BE ON THE ROAD. We have to follow the rules, just like you. That means that when you have a red light or stop sign you should not ignore it. Also, please consider the width of your truck, including projecting side mirrors, when passing a rider – leaving ample room between the rider and your truck is good both both of us. Please remember the trailer behind you before you swing directly in the bicycle’s path. I love my family and I want to spend many more years with them. I bet you do too, and bogging down your life with the results of an accident in which someone is seriously injured or killed, might mean that you might not get to spend all the time with them that you might wish. Thank you.

Oops – words too big? I’ll try again: BAD BOY. BE CAREFUL. DON’T HURT BICYCLE. DON’T HURT RIDER. BIG MESS. DON’T GO TO JAIL. DON’T LOSE TRUCK. BYE-BYE.

There, I think I feel somewhat better, despite the fact that I know this is a meaningless gesture.

What really irritates me, is not just my experiences, but the knowledge that I am seeing many more bicycles on the road since gas prices have sky rocketed. Lots of those riders don’t wear helmets, and may not have a lot of experience. They are even more vulnerable to unsafe driving practices. (Sidebar: I’m NOT saying that it’s OK for them not to wear helmets, but only one tirade per posting.)

On a more positive note, here are my top 5 things about riding in the early morning:

1. Morning sunshine.
2. Fresh air.
3. Fresh legs.
4. Relatively cool temps.
5. Coffee when I get home.

Here are the top 5 minor annoyances (aside from GITPT):

1. Fresh mulch.
2. Well rested dogs (not fenced).
3. Helmet hair.
4. Conundrums: sunglasses vs. no sunglasses? Need for sun block or not?
5. Waiting for coffee until I get home.

Get out and ride! Happy trails!