Why I'm Tired of Risking My Life Just to Ride My Bike

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Bold poster showing a cyclist and a car with the message “Share the Road – Cyclists Are People Too” emphasizing the need for driver awareness and bike safety
After decades of cycling, I’ve reached my breaking point.

Lately, it feels like drivers are growing more careless, not less. They pass too close, honk like we’re invisible, and treat cyclists like second-class citizens. I used to think it was just a few bad apples — now it feels like a whole spoiled orchard.

🚗 Too Close for Comfort

You’re riding along, doing everything right, and suddenly a car brushes by just inches from your handlebars. Do drivers understand how dangerous that is? Even the wind alone can throw a cyclist off balance.

🚪 The Dreaded Dooring

Every cyclist knows this nightmare. A parked car suddenly opens its door without warning — and you’re the bullseye. I’ve avoided it by sheer luck and quick reflexes, but many aren’t so fortunate.

🔁 The Right Hook

This one really gets me: a driver sitting at an intersection sees you coming… then still makes a sharp right turn directly in your path. It’s reckless, it’s disrespectful, and it’s happening way too often.

📣 Honked Into Submission

And then there’s the honking — not for emergencies, but as harassment. Honking because we exist. Honking because we dare to ride legally in “their” lane. It’s intimidation disguised as a horn.

I know not every driver is like this. Some wait patiently, wave, or pass wide. To them: thank you. You’re the reason we keep riding.

But overall, I’m tired. I’m tired of being treated like I don’t belong. I ride for my health, for the environment, and because I love it. I shouldn’t have to risk my life every time I clip in.

🛑 It’s Time for Drivers to Wake Up

If you drive:

  • ✅ Share the road
  • ✅ Check your mirrors
  • ✅ Respect the law — and the humans on bikes

This isn’t just about cyclists. It’s about creating safer, more respectful streets for everyone.

Rant over. Message clear.

Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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