I guess they win.

[crazycanuck]

Telegirl. At least you made it to your car!

Are there any other areas you could bike to or around?

You mentioned you've taken up mountain biking: Perhaps stick to that for the time being. I hate being around cars & I think that's why I took up Mtb.

How far are the Mtb trails & do you have anyone to ride with?

I wish you luck in your quest to find a safe road

Take care

C

[Kimmyt]

Your post made me so sad and angry for you.

I am so filled with anger against these people. They just don't understand.

I hate that because of people like who you encountered, you have to give up a wonderful sport. But I know that you're making the right decision for you. Good luck, and keep pedalling, whether it be on the road or the dirt!

K.

[missymaya]

Oh telegirl, Im sorry this all happened, what are people thinking. Just reading your post really got my goat. But what can you do about it, even though your not riding the road anymore? Others might be riding the road too and might not be so lucky to live or not get hurt. Could you call up a local state representative or congressional member for your district and complain? (cause they do care). Call the cops? Talk to your local municipality or transportation group? Something needs to be done about this, whether it be a bike lane, share the road sign, or some ordinance providing more protection for cyclists.
But, whatever you do, if you love to ride, find some way to ride, whether on the trails or somewhere else. Dont let them stop you from enjoying your life.
I'm glad your ok and hope better riding days come your way.

[mimitabby]

Telegirl, Would you consider writing a letter to your local newspaper or even CALLING them and telling them what happened ? (ask for the city desk)!

I can't believe all that happened in one ride! what a bummer!

(it's the full moon!)

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Yes PLEASE write a letter to your newspaper- or even ask to be interviewed for a small article! It might help someone, somehow, or might make some driver think for just a moment.
See if you can get license plate numbers as offending cars drive away, and report to the police. Report to the police anyway and tell them your story.
You never know where these efforts might lead- they could save some future biker's life if people are made more aware of what's going on.
Meanwhile...are there other safer roads that you could ride on in your area? Bike paths maybe, or rail-to-trail paths?

I'm so sorry- it's hard to believe that people act this way.

[7rider]

That is really distressing, Telegirl.
Vermont (and New Hampshire, if you crossed the CT river on your ride) seems to pride itself as a cycling destination. In fact, several tour companies I can think of off the top of my head have trips to VT. Cycling is a big industry in Vermont and it's terrible that there aren't better facilities (and treatment) for cyclists where you are.
I agree - talk to your local reps, the newspaper, even the chamber of commerce where you live.
Ignorant motorists should not be allowed to rule the roads.
Good luck. Don't give up on bikes all together. There are other options -- and perhaps better roads - for you out there!

[RoadRaven]

I got the shivers reading that account, telegirl.

I completely understand you wanting to take a break from riding on the road - but OH WHAT A SHAME!!!!

Some of the things I have done to try and raise bike-awareness in car drivers...

Asked the local council to put up signs with bikes along our road (I am rural and it is 16kms to the nearest 'settlement' with a shop)

Talked to our neighbour, a traffic/police officer, and he has "had a chat" with a few locals on the road and drives his work car home when he can.

Asked the local school to pop occasional reminders in the school newsletter regarding bikes, and how many of the people on the local roads are children of the school, or children's parents/older siblings.

I really hope you can find somewhere safe to ride on the road, even if it means a drive.

Can you find someone else to bike with so you are more visible on the road?

Also, do you have long hair? If not, I suggest you make a fake pony tail and attach it somehow - research shows that people are more considerate of a cyclist when they believe the cyclist is female...

Good luck with finding a solution... I really hate to think you are being deprived of something you enjoy.