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Driver arrested in road-rage incident
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Bike Commuter dude | 8:38 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I have noticed a couple of things while reading the comments here.
First: There are idiots both behind the wheel and in the saddle. (In front of a computer too!)
Second: People are have some pretty strong feelings about this.
Third: This is my third year commuting starting in Feb/Mar and going until Oct/Nov and/or the snow flies. I started riding because I was getting fat and gas went over $2.85 a gallon. I have run into few seriously rude drivers, most are very curteous and patient. I try to ride quieter streets, and the only busy one I ride is 7800 S going east/west, which has a bike lane. (Yes Virginia some roads are designed for bikes too!)
All I can say to those who have a problem with me being on the road is this: Come ride my 27mile commute one day, then lets talk about whether or not I have a right to do it!
First: There are idiots both behind the wheel and in the saddle. (In front of a computer too!)
Second: People are have some pretty strong feelings about this.
Third: This is my third year commuting starting in Feb/Mar and going until Oct/Nov and/or the snow flies. I started riding because I was getting fat and gas went over $2.85 a gallon. I have run into few seriously rude drivers, most are very curteous and patient. I try to ride quieter streets, and the only busy one I ride is 7800 S going east/west, which has a bike lane. (Yes Virginia some roads are designed for bikes too!)
All I can say to those who have a problem with me being on the road is this: Come ride my 27mile commute one day, then lets talk about whether or not I have a right to do it!
170 miles of annoying bikers | 8:42 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
To blame this man for what happened while not taking into account the fact that
the bicyclists were being a nuisance to motorists is sickening. This was not a
typical case of road rage. This is the kind of rage that's brought on by a
nuisance that's aided by the government.
I'm not saying he was right to do what he did and it was wrong for him to lose his temper and assault the bicyclists but I can imagine how annoying it was for him to read signs basically saying their rights were more important then his.
Having been in cities where there have been Parades and not been a participant I know just how annoyed this man may have become. I have also been forced to drive miles out of my way, waste my gas when all I needed to do is cross the parade route and go a few blocks because families want to use public roads for their personal enjoyment.
One of the bicyclists said, "We have a right to be on the road. And other than a couple of seconds, we're really not slowing anyone down."
Apparently, it's all about the bicyclists and their rights.
I'm not saying he was right to do what he did and it was wrong for him to lose his temper and assault the bicyclists but I can imagine how annoying it was for him to read signs basically saying their rights were more important then his.
Having been in cities where there have been Parades and not been a participant I know just how annoyed this man may have become. I have also been forced to drive miles out of my way, waste my gas when all I needed to do is cross the parade route and go a few blocks because families want to use public roads for their personal enjoyment.
One of the bicyclists said, "We have a right to be on the road. And other than a couple of seconds, we're really not slowing anyone down."
Apparently, it's all about the bicyclists and their rights.
Comments continue below
Cyclists, what are you? | 8:44 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Another commentor raised the most critical issue: Cyclists, are you a car, or
are you a pedestrian? You claim to have the same right to the road as a car.
Fine. Then behave as cars do. Stop at ALL stop signs and red lights. NEVER go
up on the sidewalk, since that is reserved strictly for pedestrians, and you are
a vehicle, not a pedestrian. Where are pedestrians supposed to go when you
cyclists are approaching on a sidewalk? Your bike with you on it is too wide
for comfortable side by side passing, so either the pedestrian or your bike need
to veer off the sidewalk. As most pedestrians don't want to be hit by your
bike, they step off the sidewalk to avoid your speeding bike that should be,
like a car, on the ROAD. Since your bike has the rights of a car, you also have
the right to wait in line at red lights and stop signs like other cars do. No
cutting to the front, no weaving in and out through cars and stopping in front
of the car at the front of the line. Wait your turn, act like a car.
Races/Parades cause major delays | 8:51 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
John,
"I'm going to say it. NO ONE wants bikes on the road. There are trails to ride on for this reason. I don't ride my car on the trails."
You mean that we don't get to share their trails but they get to share our roads?
"For the most part bikes are not a problem, but it's when they try to be cars that it does not work. YOUR NOT A CAR! You don't speed up like a car and cant go as fast as one."
Of course they can't. Not even professional racers can go as fast as cars. The bicyclist who escalated this incident by making rude comments to an enraged driver and breaking his mirror put others in danger.
"With that said the guy in this car should be charged with attempted murder."
Of course this man should be charged with aggravated assault and attempted murder. He's insane.
But enough hasn't been said in the article about the misconduct of the bicyclist or about the misconduct of the government in approving a 170 mile race that would entail lengthy delays. The bicyclist claims it only slowed motorists down a few seconds. This isn't true.
"I'm going to say it. NO ONE wants bikes on the road. There are trails to ride on for this reason. I don't ride my car on the trails."
You mean that we don't get to share their trails but they get to share our roads?
"For the most part bikes are not a problem, but it's when they try to be cars that it does not work. YOUR NOT A CAR! You don't speed up like a car and cant go as fast as one."
Of course they can't. Not even professional racers can go as fast as cars. The bicyclist who escalated this incident by making rude comments to an enraged driver and breaking his mirror put others in danger.
"With that said the guy in this car should be charged with attempted murder."
Of course this man should be charged with aggravated assault and attempted murder. He's insane.
But enough hasn't been said in the article about the misconduct of the bicyclist or about the misconduct of the government in approving a 170 mile race that would entail lengthy delays. The bicyclist claims it only slowed motorists down a few seconds. This isn't true.
NY | 8:55 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I am amazed at how many who have commented here apparently do NOT know that
bikers have a LEGAL right to ride on the road. This is not an opinion, it is a
fact. As such, however, bikers are obligated to obey the laws and like some
drivers, some do not.
I (like most bikers) also drive a car (and I pay plenty of taxes to maintain the roads). I have seen both rude drivers and rude bikers, but I can't imagine being so emotionally out of control as to actually try to cause harm to a biker. The idiot in this case is lucky that the bikers didn't beat him to a pulp -- perhaps they should have.
I (like most bikers) also drive a car (and I pay plenty of taxes to maintain the roads). I have seen both rude drivers and rude bikers, but I can't imagine being so emotionally out of control as to actually try to cause harm to a biker. The idiot in this case is lucky that the bikers didn't beat him to a pulp -- perhaps they should have.
Cars rule | 9:05 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
If cyclist want to use the road, then I want them to start having insurance and
registeration like all drivers do.
Janie | 9:11 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
AGREE WITH- FROM TOOELE
I totally agree on having bike licenses for bikers. This is the best Idea I have ever heard of. There needs to be some way to report these biker people in their tight sweat suits who deliberately break the laws.
I totally agree on having bike licenses for bikers. This is the best Idea I have ever heard of. There needs to be some way to report these biker people in their tight sweat suits who deliberately break the laws.
Make them get licenses | 9:11 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
From Tooele to Cache Valley,
"How about registration and license plates for any bicycle designed for road-riding (not for kids). It would be nice to be able to have a way to identify those who do the "I'm a vehicle, now I'm a pedestrian, now I'm a vehicle again" thing."
They don't even need a license to ride on the road yet motorits need a license to drive motor vehicles on public roads. Not only do they not need a license to ride on public roads but they also have no real INSURANCE that would cover damages to vehicles as a result of accidents they cause.
I think its time for a law that requires bicyclists to obtain a license to ride a bike on a public road and obtain insurance coverage in case they cause an accident like this bicyclist did. If motorists knew that damages to their vehicles would be covered they may not be so quick to act as this man did.
"How about registration and license plates for any bicycle designed for road-riding (not for kids). It would be nice to be able to have a way to identify those who do the "I'm a vehicle, now I'm a pedestrian, now I'm a vehicle again" thing."
They don't even need a license to ride on the road yet motorits need a license to drive motor vehicles on public roads. Not only do they not need a license to ride on public roads but they also have no real INSURANCE that would cover damages to vehicles as a result of accidents they cause.
I think its time for a law that requires bicyclists to obtain a license to ride a bike on a public road and obtain insurance coverage in case they cause an accident like this bicyclist did. If motorists knew that damages to their vehicles would be covered they may not be so quick to act as this man did.
Max | 9:15 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
If a biker dismounts, he IS a pedestrian. However, I am amazed at how many
bikers completely ignore the PEDESTRIANS ONLY signs at Bridal Veil falls in
Provo Canyon and just keep on pedaling (in other words, bikers need to dismount
and walk their bikes through that part of the trail). I was very happy to see
these signs placed there because the bikers whizzing through posed a serious
danger to those who were watching and playing near the falls. I did not
anticipate that these signs would be uniformly ignored. I would like to see some
law enforcement officers up there giving out tickets. They could make a fortune
in fines.
Thick skulls | 9:18 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Some of you just don't get it, do you?
A bicycle is legal on ANY road (except freeways) regardless of the size of the road, the number of lanes, how wide it is, whether there's a shoulder or not, etc.
A cyclist MAY legally ride down the middle of any road he chooses to. Most choose to ride on the right out of courtesy and self-preservation.
You don't have to like it, but that's what the law says.
So yes, those bikers in Cache Valley riding on narrow country roads have EVERY LEGAL RIGHT to be there, and as a law-abiding motorist (as I'm sure you all are) you will give cyclists the three feet of space as required by law, won't you?
A bicycle is legal on ANY road (except freeways) regardless of the size of the road, the number of lanes, how wide it is, whether there's a shoulder or not, etc.
A cyclist MAY legally ride down the middle of any road he chooses to. Most choose to ride on the right out of courtesy and self-preservation.
You don't have to like it, but that's what the law says.
So yes, those bikers in Cache Valley riding on narrow country roads have EVERY LEGAL RIGHT to be there, and as a law-abiding motorist (as I'm sure you all are) you will give cyclists the three feet of space as required by law, won't you?
Why don't you issue more permits | 9:20 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Bob G,
"Hey people, this was a bike race, not some people out there sight seeing and intentionally interfering with a few moments of your time."
You got that right. They got permission to interfere with their time. So I guess its fine as long as they have permission to be a nuisance.
"When bike and runner races are established they request permission to use the roads and pay for safety vehicles to follow the bikers and runners to assist them when needed."
I'm so glad that you are as rude as bicyclists and share their views. I'm sure you would be glad to be the guy who gives them permission to be a nuisance.
"Perhaps to satisfy the rude drivers they should close the roads for the races, like they do in europe."
So we should just all be forced to go out of our way because bicyclists rights are more important because some person we never met issued a permit. Did we get to appeal the permit? How about this? Publish these permits so we can protest fascism.
"These drivers are criminal that purposefully attack and endanger others with their vehicles."
Anyone who attacks anyone purposely are criminals.
"Hey people, this was a bike race, not some people out there sight seeing and intentionally interfering with a few moments of your time."
You got that right. They got permission to interfere with their time. So I guess its fine as long as they have permission to be a nuisance.
"When bike and runner races are established they request permission to use the roads and pay for safety vehicles to follow the bikers and runners to assist them when needed."
I'm so glad that you are as rude as bicyclists and share their views. I'm sure you would be glad to be the guy who gives them permission to be a nuisance.
"Perhaps to satisfy the rude drivers they should close the roads for the races, like they do in europe."
So we should just all be forced to go out of our way because bicyclists rights are more important because some person we never met issued a permit. Did we get to appeal the permit? How about this? Publish these permits so we can protest fascism.
"These drivers are criminal that purposefully attack and endanger others with their vehicles."
Anyone who attacks anyone purposely are criminals.
Bicyclists cause many accidents | 9:35 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Paul,
"About 3 weeks ago we had some biker come up and throw a hissy fit, and he deliberately hit are car with his helmet, because we were in his way, when we indeed had the right away...also dented our car in his fit of rage, but took off so that we could not report him."
You are forced to just pay to repair the dent and move on. After all you can't report the incident because bicyclists aren't required to have licenses, insurance or use license plates.
"How can we report these bicyclers who break the law if there is nothing there for us to report?"
You can't. You simply must accept the damage because a bunch of people elect a bunch of idiots who refuse to hold bicyclists accountable by requiring them to obtain licenses and insurance to cover any damage they cause to motorists and pedestrians before being allowed to ride on roads.
Don't worry. A pedestrian would have had it worst had he hit them and fled. Not only wouldn't they be able to report it but they would have to pay for their own injury because our legislators won't hold bicyclists accountable.
"About 3 weeks ago we had some biker come up and throw a hissy fit, and he deliberately hit are car with his helmet, because we were in his way, when we indeed had the right away...also dented our car in his fit of rage, but took off so that we could not report him."
You are forced to just pay to repair the dent and move on. After all you can't report the incident because bicyclists aren't required to have licenses, insurance or use license plates.
"How can we report these bicyclers who break the law if there is nothing there for us to report?"
You can't. You simply must accept the damage because a bunch of people elect a bunch of idiots who refuse to hold bicyclists accountable by requiring them to obtain licenses and insurance to cover any damage they cause to motorists and pedestrians before being allowed to ride on roads.
Don't worry. A pedestrian would have had it worst had he hit them and fled. Not only wouldn't they be able to report it but they would have to pay for their own injury because our legislators won't hold bicyclists accountable.
for Al | 9:38 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Al,
If you want to go with what the road was designed for, then you need to get a CDL and only drive Semi trucks. The road wasn't designed for your car, it was designed for the semi trucks! Cars do very little damage to the roads, trucks do almost all of it. Roads aren't for cars if you use the arguement that you need to use the tool for what it was designed!
If you want to go with what the road was designed for, then you need to get a CDL and only drive Semi trucks. The road wasn't designed for your car, it was designed for the semi trucks! Cars do very little damage to the roads, trucks do almost all of it. Roads aren't for cars if you use the arguement that you need to use the tool for what it was designed!
I dare you | 9:46 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
There are TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY. I think we need to start filming some of
these bikers who break laws. Perhaps do a the hidden camera deal on them. I
would be one of the first who would love to get biker law breakers on film, and
then send it to the authorities. Some of the biking guy's & gal's
seem pretty suicidal and daring on their bikes.
Minnesota cyclist | 9:45 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
As a recreational cyclist who has made 100+ mile/day trips, I much prefer the
trails to the roads. The public highways are just too dangerous! The vehicles
are much bigger and faster than my bike.
Also, although it may be 'legal' to ride two abreast, it only increases your changes of becoming roadkill. Cars and bikes generally don't mix too well and as cars don't fit on bike trails, it is a much safer way to take a ride.
Also, although it may be 'legal' to ride two abreast, it only increases your changes of becoming roadkill. Cars and bikes generally don't mix too well and as cars don't fit on bike trails, it is a much safer way to take a ride.
It was your fault. | 9:59 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Re: "To: Paul"
"There is much more to this story than you are telling us...like how you almost hit the guy etc."
There's no mention of him almost hitting anyone and the reason is because it didn't happen. Pedestrians share the same level of frustration with bicyclists as motorists since they have no respect for rules of the road and make them up as they go along.
"I have been hit by a careless driver. Luckily it just knocked his sideview mirror back and I wasn't knocked to the ground."
If you hit his sideview mirror that's because you rode too close to his vehicle. You are required by law to ride as far right as possible when traveling slower then normal traffic. If there isn't enough room for you to ride beside a vehicle on the road you are REQUIRED by law to ride in the proper lane or on a sidewalk so if your bike struck the side of his vehicle it's your fault.
You are lucky that your carelessness didn't result in death, permanent injury or damage to his vehicle. If you can't follow the rules of the road than stay off the road idiot.
"There is much more to this story than you are telling us...like how you almost hit the guy etc."
There's no mention of him almost hitting anyone and the reason is because it didn't happen. Pedestrians share the same level of frustration with bicyclists as motorists since they have no respect for rules of the road and make them up as they go along.
"I have been hit by a careless driver. Luckily it just knocked his sideview mirror back and I wasn't knocked to the ground."
If you hit his sideview mirror that's because you rode too close to his vehicle. You are required by law to ride as far right as possible when traveling slower then normal traffic. If there isn't enough room for you to ride beside a vehicle on the road you are REQUIRED by law to ride in the proper lane or on a sidewalk so if your bike struck the side of his vehicle it's your fault.
You are lucky that your carelessness didn't result in death, permanent injury or damage to his vehicle. If you can't follow the rules of the road than stay off the road idiot.
Slick tight pants | 10:06 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Also, bikers can drink and drive. ha ha!
It's crappy bicyclists like you | 10:10 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
For ike,
"First of all, a cyclist CAN ride in the middle of a traffic lane COMPLETELY LEGALLY if he/she wants to."
No they can't because it's illegal for a bicyclist to ride in the "middle of a traffic lane" except under very specific circumstance including when making a left turn, when the right lane is a right turn only lane and the bicyclist is going straight, when overtaking and passing another vehicle, or to avoid unsafe conditions or if he's going as fast or faster then normal traffic.
If they don't meet one or more of these conditions they are required to ride on the far right of the road and yield the right of way to motorists just like they are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians when riding on sidewalks or trails unless otherwise specified by traffic devices.
"Second, I've ridden with literally hundreds or maybe even thousands of riders...I've never met a single one who feels..."
Based on your above comment about bicyclists having the right to ride in the "middle of a traffic lane" I would have to say this comment about riding with hundreds or thousands of riders is a lie.
"First of all, a cyclist CAN ride in the middle of a traffic lane COMPLETELY LEGALLY if he/she wants to."
No they can't because it's illegal for a bicyclist to ride in the "middle of a traffic lane" except under very specific circumstance including when making a left turn, when the right lane is a right turn only lane and the bicyclist is going straight, when overtaking and passing another vehicle, or to avoid unsafe conditions or if he's going as fast or faster then normal traffic.
If they don't meet one or more of these conditions they are required to ride on the far right of the road and yield the right of way to motorists just like they are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians when riding on sidewalks or trails unless otherwise specified by traffic devices.
"Second, I've ridden with literally hundreds or maybe even thousands of riders...I've never met a single one who feels..."
Based on your above comment about bicyclists having the right to ride in the "middle of a traffic lane" I would have to say this comment about riding with hundreds or thousands of riders is a lie.
To Himself | 10:24 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Do you have a degree in one of those difficult Sociology or Psychology programs
(sarcasm)? That was a very weak pseudo-intellectual thought and should be
discussed among your peers in Panguitch public school. You are not deep
thinker, just a verbose child. The Lion eats the lamb like Alex proved.
Learn how to drive and ride | 10:31 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
NY,
"I am amazed at how many who have commented here apparently do NOT know that bikers have a LEGAL right to ride on the road."
Your statement is misleading. Bicyclists don't have a LEGAL right to ride on the road except under very specific circumstances including being required by law to ride on the far right of the road or in a designated bike lane whenever possible.
They may ride in the middle of a traffic lane when they are making left turns from a left turn lane but if they are making a left turn when there is no left turn lane they are required to make the turn as far right as possible and STOP on the side of the road after making the turn to allow oncoming traffic to proceed.
Other circumstances when they may use a traffic lane are when they are overtaking and passing SLOWER moving vehicles, when traveling through intersections with a right turn only lane and to avoid unsafe conditions.
"The idiot in this case is lucky that the bikers didn't beat him to a pulp -- perhaps they should have."
It's ignorant bicyclists and motorists like you that pose a danger.
"I am amazed at how many who have commented here apparently do NOT know that bikers have a LEGAL right to ride on the road."
Your statement is misleading. Bicyclists don't have a LEGAL right to ride on the road except under very specific circumstances including being required by law to ride on the far right of the road or in a designated bike lane whenever possible.
They may ride in the middle of a traffic lane when they are making left turns from a left turn lane but if they are making a left turn when there is no left turn lane they are required to make the turn as far right as possible and STOP on the side of the road after making the turn to allow oncoming traffic to proceed.
Other circumstances when they may use a traffic lane are when they are overtaking and passing SLOWER moving vehicles, when traveling through intersections with a right turn only lane and to avoid unsafe conditions.
"The idiot in this case is lucky that the bikers didn't beat him to a pulp -- perhaps they should have."
It's ignorant bicyclists and motorists like you that pose a danger.
Gunning for Everything | 10:37 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
From the comments it sounds like because I own a car I now have the right to gun
for anything. That slow grandpa in the fast lane I am just going to run him off
the road. He is only doing 65 on the freeway... That little kid crossing the
crosswalk... Shouldn't they be playing inside where it is safe?? That deer
on the Highway? I mean really what is that animal thinking???? He doen't
pay any taxes and there isn't even a deer crossing sign there. It has no
right to cross the street in the mountains. I really hate bikers on the road
too. The wind in there hair as they ride down the freeway. Don't they
know I don't pay attention to anything? I have a big car and a heavy foot
and anything in my way is toast. Especially the people out trying to train for
a ride or just enjoying an afternoon on 2 wheels. It is people like that who
make it tough to drive to work with my road rage...
Man I sound pathetic don't I???
Man I sound pathetic don't I???
Anonymous | 10:38 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Last week while driving in Washington state, there was bike race/activity on the
interstate highway. There were warning signs but it just appeared a little
unusual to see bikes on the freeway.
Teeth Weenies | 10:41 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
It really saddens me daily that I have drive "WAY BELOW" the speed
limit because some sausage on his bike will not move over so that i can pass
him. I think there needs to be new laws and license's for these rude
people.... WHO REFUSE TO SHARE THE ROAD with motorists. I have been late to work
on occasion because of some tooth weenie who was being inconsiderate and thought
he and his little friends were being REAL cute by not letting me pass them on
the road.
RL | 10:50 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I agree, nice mug shot!... it does kind of scream "white trash." The
dude needs counseling! And a shirt. And a haircut. And a shave. Oh, and lets
just throw in a REAL LIFE while we are at it. Sorry, I just couldn't
resist. Why can't we just all get along? The road is PUBLIC, that means
it's there for vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians. Everyone pays for it,
everyone gets to use it.
Pure stink! | 10:58 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
What is wrong with the government? They are using money where it's not
needed, but let the bicycle bum's have a free ride. NOT FAIR! They are
breaking laws on their bicycles and no one is doing a darn thing about it.
Show some courtesy | 10:59 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
The fact that it isn't against the law to drive 55 MPH in the left hand
feeway lane, doesn't mean it isn't inconsiderate. You put out a lot
of other people simply because you have the right to.
Similarly, bicyclists have the same rights to the road as cars. However, just because they have the right, doesn't mean they need to be totally inconsiderate of everyone else using the road. There is no good reason why they shouldn't ride single file to let cars pass them, and at least try to stay off to the side of the road.
We get it; you have the right to be out there. However, why don't you show a little courtesy.
Similarly, bicyclists have the same rights to the road as cars. However, just because they have the right, doesn't mean they need to be totally inconsiderate of everyone else using the road. There is no good reason why they shouldn't ride single file to let cars pass them, and at least try to stay off to the side of the road.
We get it; you have the right to be out there. However, why don't you show a little courtesy.
To all cyclists | 11:08 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I respect your choice to save money and exercise, I really do. And I think what
the dude in the truck did was wrong. I just wish that you cyclists would obey
the rules of the road. And it seems like its the hardcore spandex-clad Tour De
France trainees that don't. Case in point, yesterday I saw a gentlemen on a
mountain bike not designed for road biking clearly struggling to make it to his
destination. He was, however, obeying all the rules of the road and being very
courteous. About 10 minutes later, I was driving through an intersection, I had
the right of way thanks to this fantastic new invention known as the traffic
light, and Lance Freaking Armstrong darted through the intersection going
perpendicular to me, even though, and again I know this is a difficult concept,
he had a red light. Needless to say I had to slam on my brakes, and I honked at
him and he looked at me like I was insane. If you want respect, show respect.
Jason | 11:10 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I started riding a road bike to work last year - which is only 8 miles each way.
I do it for the following reasons (listed order).
1.) To get to work
2.) To save money on gas
3.) Force myself to get in better shape.
4.) I have a natural high when I get to work.
5.) To not send my money to the Middle East
6.) Hopefully help with congestion and pollution.
When I drove, only the first one was accomplished. Please give bikers space.
1.) To get to work
2.) To save money on gas
3.) Force myself to get in better shape.
4.) I have a natural high when I get to work.
5.) To not send my money to the Middle East
6.) Hopefully help with congestion and pollution.
When I drove, only the first one was accomplished. Please give bikers space.
BikerDude | 11:08 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Given the neanderthal sentiments expressed here, it's clear I'll have
to start carrying my hogleg on my morning rides/climbs. I won't even need
a concealed carry permit -- couldn't conceal it in my bike shorts
anyway.
Think twice before you try this trick on me.
Think twice before you try this trick on me.
Hilarious attire | 11:45 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Maybe if the bicyclers would stop wearing dancing tights it might help.
dude | 11:46 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
since bikes are not required to have insurance or licence or register thier on
highway vehicles if one hit my car or damaged it any way I would have to
confiscate his bike. thats fair right?
Tommie | 11:51 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
To "got news for you":
Cyclists slow you down much more than 5 seconds. They can use a sidewalk to ride a bike or stay at the sides of a road. It is really annoying to have people on a bike in front of you and you have to 15 minutes late wherever you are going because they can't go as fast as a car.
Cyclists slow you down much more than 5 seconds. They can use a sidewalk to ride a bike or stay at the sides of a road. It is really annoying to have people on a bike in front of you and you have to 15 minutes late wherever you are going because they can't go as fast as a car.
haunyocker | 11:58 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
My experience with so-call experienced bike riders has been about the same as
Mr. Barto. When was the last time that you saw a bike rider follow the rules
all other vehicles have to follow. They don't stop when crossing roads,
they ride on the lines of bike lanes, they don't give the same courtesy any
vehicle has the right to expect. It's as if they are privileged and
vehicles have to look out for them. I recently was driving on a street with a
bike lane. A bike rider wasn't being aware of his surroundings and
suddenly turned left out of the bike lane and right in front of me. Luckily I
had moved over because of his erratic riding, but his eyes got really big when
he suddenly realized he had just pulled in front of my truck on the regular road
lane. People driving cars are always at fault when it comes to bike
riders...it's about time that bike riders get tickets just like motor
vehicles. Maybe then, they would have the assumptive arrogance to think they
own the road and everybody else has to get out of their way.
ila mae | 11:58 a.m. Aug. 7, 2008
If I have to choose between hitting a biker who swerves into my traffic lane or
swerving into oncoming traffic and possibly injuring or killing innocent people
in a head on collision, guess who loses?
grandma driver | 12:09 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Just because the law says you can doesnt make it safe or smart. Bikers sense of
entitlment sometimes puts others at risk as they may not feel uncomfortabe
passing them on a narrow road but feel pressure to not hold up traffic. Not to
mention those that are hauling trailers which by itself can be a stressfull
situation.
I think cycling is a beautiful sport but they should nt cause dangerous situations because of their selfness to be on the road even when its a dangerous one. NOT SMART nor SAFE!!! Not just to themselves but to the others sharing the road.
I think cycling is a beautiful sport but they should nt cause dangerous situations because of their selfness to be on the road even when its a dangerous one. NOT SMART nor SAFE!!! Not just to themselves but to the others sharing the road.
Jackie | 12:11 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
You know? I think in my days of driving that the bikers are the rudest people on
the road. If you don't let them have full use of the road they throw a
finger gesture and yell obscene words. This is quite offensive to some of us. I
have to agree, I as well, find their clothing repulsive. "Who cares"
if they are all built like women... Geeezzzers!
Spellman | 12:21 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Defensive driving, or cycling, should be the rule. A few moments of reckless
driving, road rage, or cyclists not following the rules of the road, could
result in serious lifelong consequences. Be the better person and share the
road.
Utah motorists | 12:22 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
In general Utah motorists are psycho. Some of these posts here prove it. When
did people who ride bikes become considered a non living thing? Do motorists
realize that those are actual living breathing people who ride those bikes and
not some object to be run over? Cyclists have every right to use the road ways.
It�s in the laws. If you don�t like it
change them but dont run people off the road. Be a little patient. So what if
your 30 seconds, 15 min or even a half hour late? Those people have every right
to be were they are and not have to worry about some one taking their life.
Regarding the clothing that cyclist where. Who cares what they where. Some people are so red neck. They have no tolerance for any one ells except them self.
It would do this country good if more people were to ride bikes. It would help with the obesity problems we have that tax the medical system. We would be less reliant on over seas oil. Cycling has proven to provide more blood flow to the brain. Something some of you defiantly need.
Regarding the clothing that cyclist where. Who cares what they where. Some people are so red neck. They have no tolerance for any one ells except them self.
It would do this country good if more people were to ride bikes. It would help with the obesity problems we have that tax the medical system. We would be less reliant on over seas oil. Cycling has proven to provide more blood flow to the brain. Something some of you defiantly need.
OHV | 12:25 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I wanna ride on the road with the motorized wanna-bees. My OHV would be alot
safer. Cyclist should consider themselves lucky that lawmakers consider their
sport to be more pure than that of the offroad nature.
Huray Arizona for not discriminating against that croud.
Huray Arizona for not discriminating against that croud.
For Tommie | 12:30 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Uh Tommie - riding a bike on the sidewalk is illegal, dude. Bikes are not
pedestrians. Just like you can't drive on the sidewalk, I can't ride
on the sidewalk.
And I've put over 10,000 miles on a bike in my lifetime and I can't recall ever having cars stuck behind me for more than 10 seconds. I move as far right as I can, you pass safely, and we all go on our merry way.
If you're constantly in such a hurry maybe you need to leave earlier. Sadly there are other delays on the road besides cyclists.....accidents, emergency vehicles, traffic jams, construction, etc. In fact, as a driver I'd say these other things are much more common and cause much greater delays than cyclists. Leave early, don't be in such a hurry, and maybe your stress level will decrease and maybe I won't get mowed down on my way home from work.
And I've put over 10,000 miles on a bike in my lifetime and I can't recall ever having cars stuck behind me for more than 10 seconds. I move as far right as I can, you pass safely, and we all go on our merry way.
If you're constantly in such a hurry maybe you need to leave earlier. Sadly there are other delays on the road besides cyclists.....accidents, emergency vehicles, traffic jams, construction, etc. In fact, as a driver I'd say these other things are much more common and cause much greater delays than cyclists. Leave early, don't be in such a hurry, and maybe your stress level will decrease and maybe I won't get mowed down on my way home from work.
re BikerDude | 12:41 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
LOL... wether you try to conceal it or not or even take it with you its not
going to help you in those shorts.
Jimmy | 12:58 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
I think bike guys should always have the right away, and so what if the guy in
the truck got a broken mirror..who cares. We have the right away. We need
respect. It's only the nice thing you people should do for a bunch of nice
boys who like hanging out together. Oh yes, quit picking on our physic and
clothing. You people are all jealous of us.
Don't Get In MY WAY...or Else!!! | 1:02 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
"In general Utah motorists are psycho." Sadly proven here by the
comments.
If these attitudes expressed here are widespread, then Utah has to be one of the most backward places on the planet earth. The people who live here, who claim to be Christians, and who attend church regularly, must be some of the worst hypocrites imaginable.
A recent story on KSL TV showed many drivers nearly running over a policeman who tried to cross the street. I expected the commenters to be outraged at the rude behavior of their neighbors. But NO! Comment after comment blaming pedestrians for getting in the way of the driver who is in a hurry to get where ever.
More of the same here.
I mentioned that I was hit by a car. I was over to the right, and the car HIT ME as it passed me at a high rate of speed. The commenter says "It's your fault". The anti-bike comments are largely based on a strong prejudice and little logic or compassion. Mothers hide your kids!
I am absolutely amazed at my "Christian" neighbors. If we have some sort of natural disaster it will be "Katrina Redux" in this state.
If these attitudes expressed here are widespread, then Utah has to be one of the most backward places on the planet earth. The people who live here, who claim to be Christians, and who attend church regularly, must be some of the worst hypocrites imaginable.
A recent story on KSL TV showed many drivers nearly running over a policeman who tried to cross the street. I expected the commenters to be outraged at the rude behavior of their neighbors. But NO! Comment after comment blaming pedestrians for getting in the way of the driver who is in a hurry to get where ever.
More of the same here.
I mentioned that I was hit by a car. I was over to the right, and the car HIT ME as it passed me at a high rate of speed. The commenter says "It's your fault". The anti-bike comments are largely based on a strong prejudice and little logic or compassion. Mothers hide your kids!
I am absolutely amazed at my "Christian" neighbors. If we have some sort of natural disaster it will be "Katrina Redux" in this state.
re: Tommie | 1:11 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
If you're 15 minutes late to get somewhere and encountered a cyclist on the
way, you were late because you left 14:45 after the time you should have
left.
Also, cyclists wear bright colors for one primary reason -- to be seen by motorists. It's not because they like the look -- although my bike gear makes me look a ton better than the Size XXXL shirts worn by the people who think they actually are impeeded by bicycles.
Next time you think bicycles disregard the law (which many do) take a look at what happens at the next red light or stop sign you get to. You'll see 90 percent of the cars roll through the stop signs and two or three run every red light just after the yellow because they can't stand the idea of waiting 45 seconds to get somewhere.
Also, cyclists wear bright colors for one primary reason -- to be seen by motorists. It's not because they like the look -- although my bike gear makes me look a ton better than the Size XXXL shirts worn by the people who think they actually are impeeded by bicycles.
Next time you think bicycles disregard the law (which many do) take a look at what happens at the next red light or stop sign you get to. You'll see 90 percent of the cars roll through the stop signs and two or three run every red light just after the yellow because they can't stand the idea of waiting 45 seconds to get somewhere.
jfrazier | 1:13 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Just to say how crazy car drivers are, I was cycling last night in Tooele county
and I pulled up to a stop sign and came to a practical stop (I am clipped into
the pedals, so can't hold it long, but no one was coming the other
direction, so didn't need to hold it) and a truck came up beside me and
never slowed less than 10 mph before blowing around me through the 4-way stop.
Later, at another intersection on the same ride, I was turning left at a stop
sign. I hand signalled to turn left and moved to the left and was slowing to a
stop. A car went into the other lane, passed me, then moved back right real
quick to be in front of me at the stop sign. Had a car been turning right from
the other direction, which did not have to stop, we all would have been in a
hurt.
So I don't want to hear about bad cyclist driving. These two incidents happened in one ride about 20 minutes apart. At any intersection you will see far more bad car driving than cyclist driving.
So I don't want to hear about bad cyclist driving. These two incidents happened in one ride about 20 minutes apart. At any intersection you will see far more bad car driving than cyclist driving.
To: Jimmy | 1:11 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Nice sarcasm. You are obviously NOT a biker and just trying to stir up trouble.
matt | 1:25 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Wow! It's amazing to see how many people blame the victim, as if it were
his fault that an enraged motorist aggressively tried to run him (and others)
off the road. I have raced with the rider who was hit and in my experience he is
a courteous, conscientious, and safety-minded cyclist. Yes, there are some
inconsiderate cyclists, but he is not one of them.
Some have also complained here about cyclists' sense of entitlement without any sense of irony about their own car entitlement. As a bicycle commuter and racer, I do feel entitled to be on the road. I do not feel entitled to run stop lights or stop signs or break other traffic laws, but i absolutely feel entitled to ride my bike on the streets, as much as anyone else in his or her car.
Many cities with successful bicycle programs have stepped up their efforts to ticket cyclists who break traffic laws. I agree with this approach. However, i also want to see the three-foot law more actively enforced, as well as better transportation planning to create roads that are more conducive to bike travel.
Some have also complained here about cyclists' sense of entitlement without any sense of irony about their own car entitlement. As a bicycle commuter and racer, I do feel entitled to be on the road. I do not feel entitled to run stop lights or stop signs or break other traffic laws, but i absolutely feel entitled to ride my bike on the streets, as much as anyone else in his or her car.
Many cities with successful bicycle programs have stepped up their efforts to ticket cyclists who break traffic laws. I agree with this approach. However, i also want to see the three-foot law more actively enforced, as well as better transportation planning to create roads that are more conducive to bike travel.
Taunting & bad behavior | 1:30 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
HELLO 1:02p.m.
Sport bikers are not pedestrians. They are smart foul mouthed little boys trying to be hot on their bikes. They are RUDE. We are not talking about the guy who is taking his bike to work each and everyday. We are talking about pair shaped boys on their bikes who purposely get in the way of motorists.
Sport bikers are not pedestrians. They are smart foul mouthed little boys trying to be hot on their bikes. They are RUDE. We are not talking about the guy who is taking his bike to work each and everyday. We are talking about pair shaped boys on their bikes who purposely get in the way of motorists.
Calie | 1:40 p.m. Aug. 7, 2008
Some just need to learn bicycle rules on here.
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First of all, a cyclist CAN ride in the middle of a traffic lane COMPLETELY LEGALLY if he/she wants to. Fortunately most cyclists are smart and/or courteous enough not to.
Second, I've ridden with literally hundreds or maybe even thousands of riders (or would you prefer I call them "freaks"?).....I've never met a single one who feels the need to use their bike as a tool to "control" the flow of traffic or "to impress others with their macho power." Most are just trying to enjoy their hobby without getting killed in the process.
However I will agree with those who say ALL cyclists need to obey ALL traffic laws - we can't have it both ways.
And thanks to ike, I now know why I didn't make the Olympic team: My helmet and shorts don't match! Thanks for the tip, ike!