I'm glad to see some people on here pointing out that thebikes in traffic thing is a two sided problem, and not the fault of just one side.
I had a big long rant here, but nobody wants to read that. I'll just say that I've seen ignorance, and outright stupidity from both motorists and cyclists. I live in a state where the unified vehicle law covers bicycles, but not many people seem to know that.
As for those who think that bicycles should get off the road, that's actually considered more dangerous. Apparently, you're more likely to be hit by a car, while riding on the sidewalk. Riding way over at the edge, like I do is also considered dangerous, because you're less likely to be seen. Ironically, I feel safer there.
Now, don't get me started on the guys who constantly complain that motorists need to share the road, but won't do the same, for the motorists. You don't have to get off the road, but you can move over to let people around you more easily.
Back to the original article, when I'm on my bike, I listen as much or more than I look for traffic. I wouldn't dream of riding, with ear phones. I know Ohio law makes it illegal to wear head/earphones wile operating a bicycle or motorcycle on public roads, with an exception made for two way radios to keep in contact with people you're traveling with.
I had a big long rant here, but nobody wants to read that. I'll just say that I've seen ignorance, and outright stupidity from both motorists and cyclists. I live in a state where the unified vehicle law covers bicycles, but not many people seem to know that.
As for those who think that bicycles should get off the road, that's actually considered more dangerous. Apparently, you're more likely to be hit by a car, while riding on the sidewalk. Riding way over at the edge, like I do is also considered dangerous, because you're less likely to be seen. Ironically, I feel safer there.
Now, don't get me started on the guys who constantly complain that motorists need to share the road, but won't do the same, for the motorists. You don't have to get off the road, but you can move over to let people around you more easily.
Back to the original article, when I'm on my bike, I listen as much or more than I look for traffic. I wouldn't dream of riding, with ear phones. I know Ohio law makes it illegal to wear head/earphones wile operating a bicycle or motorcycle on public roads, with an exception made for two way radios to keep in contact with people you're traveling with.