Near Miss This Time
Last time this happened I got wiped out, but it’s too long ago to remember exactly when this happened (OK, it was fifteen years. But that would mean that I’m . . . . older than I feel). If you’re in the US, read ‘right’ for ‘left’ here:
Riding along this morning at a reasonable pace into the wind, I noticed a van passing me slowly as we both approached a turning on the left. As the back of the van drew level with me, I realised that he was indicating to turn left! Sudden braking from me, followed by the driver realising that he wasn’t quite alone on the road saved the day - just.
Obviously I’m not lit up like enough of a christmas tree - I have a very bright rear light on my bike, and always wear a day-glow top that’s covered in reflective tape.
What more should I be doing?!
I have had several near misses on the bike. The worst for me was when our bicycle tour went through Los Angeles. About 40 miles of six lane traffic - and this was the light traffic road. I had a person turn in front of me going into a gas station. I quickly turned as well, thus avoiding the crash. We have three touring bikes, all three decked out with reflective gear. I was wondering how in the world she missed seeing us…
I’ve noticed that my road handling skills (when cars cut in front of me) have vastly improved since I also took up mountain biking two years ago. Nothing like falling down a lot single tracking to teach you how to handle your bike.
Phil
It sounds like you were doing everything right - glad it was a miss.
You’d think professional drivers would be more aware. I find vans, busses, taxis and trucks often pass closer than cars but rarely pull out in front of me or cut me off at a turn - unlike cars.