BIKE: Safety Question

[Robert M Farr]

Ken,
My advice to the entry-level commuter (just the same as the experienced 
commuter) would be to try to emulate the automobile flow as much as 
possible while maintaining a lane position that's solidly in the tire 
track closest to the curb, but always prepared to bail out toward the 
curbside position if there's an advantage to be gained or skin to be saved.

Passing queues of stacked-up automobiles is a subject of some debate 
here in the states, though I know from experience it's perfectly legal 
and, in fact mandated in countries like Japan where bikes, motorcycles 
and scooters are supposed to move to the front of the queue at traffic 
signals and wait in a crosswalk-like zone created for that purpose.

I wouldn't hesitate to pass stopped cars, but would be more cautious as 
they started to move and pick up speed because that increases the 
possibility that you'll be surprised by a sudden turning movement. Not 
really a problem because I'm always looking for gaps to insert myself 
into as the cars start moving and retake the automobile tire track lane 
position.

The passing maneuver may be considered unsafe by some, but so is riding 
a bike in traffic when compared to standing at a bus stop. What's the 
point of riding a bike if you're not willing to accept the risk or reap 
the advantages?

But be careful just the same. If someone in the queue is having a bad 
day they might try to take it out on you.
--
Bob
Austin, Texas

kfrank1 wrote:
> Hello,
> 
> I recently bought a bike and started commuting to work and have a question about safety in the following situation which I haven't seen addressed anywhere yet. I am currently reading the 'Effective Cycling' book, and have also read the safety advice on the internet including this site.
> 
> If you are on a four lane road (two lanes in each direction) and both lanes are backed up with stop & start traffic, which lane is it safest to pass, on the inside lane between the car and curb, or in between the cars, assuming there is sufficient space in both cases for the cyclist to pass? (I have seen cyclists do both)
> 
> In my opinion both are probably unsafe because no-one is expecting people to pass them in conjested traffic. In the first case you risk being hit by a opening door of a parked car or  cars deciding to suddenly pull out or pull into a parking space or driveway. In the second case you risk cars suddenly deciding to change lanes to go into a 'faster' lane.
> 
> By the way am writing from New Zealand but am sure this applies to cyclists anywhere.
> 
> Thanks
> Ken
> 
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-- 
Robert Farr
Austin, TX
bobfarr