Until I started riding tandem with DH last Fall, I wasn't really aware of the cycling laws. I knew a cyclist was technically not allowed on the sidewalk and that it was legal for a cyclist to turn left in a left hand turn lane, but I didn't really know they had all the same rights as motorists. I didn't know the "bike lane" was often less safe than the "car lane" because of gravel, glass, etc. I never got irritated at a cyclist, though, if they were in the regular lane. Most people seem to give cyclists a break around here.

However, one of the first times out on a tandem, we were going down hill on a street with virtually no one around except the car coming up behind us. We were pretty far into the lane since we were going fairly fast and there was a whole entire other lane to the left of us wide open.

This lady goes by in her convertible and yells, "Get in the bike lane!" To which DH responds, "We are! Read your DMV manual!" There wasn't a bike lane and, even if there was, it would have been the least safe place to be at the down hill speed we were going. Especially if some lady like HER decided to go by us all close, giving us less room to maneuver.

That's the only time I've ever heard verbal abuse (in my short riding career). But it does make me aware that many motorists are simply not aware of the laws. It is our duty, when possible, to inform them in an effective, kind way. However, if you only have a second, yelling out, "Read your DMV manual!" might be of use. I doubt she read it, though. Probably went home and vented to her husband who was equally ignorant and, therefore, made her feel justified!