Michigan and bike safety

[north woods gal]

I take the lane at intersections for safety's sake and sometimes when urban traffic is so slow that the cars are moving at a crawl. Otherwise, I stay to the right and in those tight spots, as far right as possible, even to the point of riding the shoulder if need be (and if safe to do so), even though I am within my legal rights to take my share of the lane. It's a matter of doing whatever it takes to be safe.

I share your concerns about your husband taking the lane in those situations. Knowing motorists like I do, you will have your share of drivers who's first reaction will be anger and impatience and, with your husband out there in the middle of the lane, he's way too vulnerable. Also, I've lived in mountain country and have seen drivers (usually locals) blindly pass on mountain curves many times. sometimes passing two or three cars to do so. He's an accident waiting to happen, out there in the middle of the lane on blind curves. He really is.

Besides, the law states that bicyclists should ride as far right as possible when there is enough room in the lane to share. His intentions are good, but he's actually breaking the law if there is room to share.