Quote Originally Posted by Trek420 View Post
To me it's the shocking attitude that without even admitting wrongdoing "well, other people are even worse".

So that means as long as we're not the worst example of any wrong behavior it's ok? I slow at a red light and hit a pedestrian "well, other riders don't even slow down" so that makes it ok.

What part of don't drink and drive don't they understand?

Two people and the lives of all their family and friends are changed forever and it's "well she's not as bad as Suzie or Joe, they don't even have a cuppa coffee first". Does that make these riders any better off that their assailent could have been a little more drunk? Are MM_QFC and her partner a little less injured because some drivers are even more distracted and irresponsible.
Can't agree with you all any more than I already do...I've been following the progress (and luckily it IS progress) of these 2 women, as they were hit/hurt soon after I was...it was kinda too close to home, y'know?
No, I wasn't airlifted away and certainly didn't suffer the severe injuries that both of these CA riders did, but my life has been completely affected by the ditwad driver who hit me, that's for sure. In addition to numerous sprains, strains, lacerations, deep contusions, I suffered a concussion and have a neuro-rehab ALL-DAY (oh joy ) assessment at the UW after I return from providing road support to my rider buddies in the Empire State AIDS ride soon. Yes, I'm grateful to be alive, but I'd rather be riding, as I've always done, thank you very much...
In my view (which was the same before I was hit as now), EVERY person who gets behind the wheel of any vehicle and drives it out on the road, has the responsibility to operate it with due care, and NOT:
- be under the influence
- inattentive/pre-occupied
- speeding (in addition, she knew that her brakes were bad per her statement to police - sigh )
- failing to yield to cyclists/pedestrians in a signed, painted crosswalk
- distracted (on cell phone, reaching into back seat, etc)

the driver who hit me is guilty of ALL of the above...nice, eh? Whew!

I hope you all continue to enjoy safe, fun rides!
Tailwinds!
Mary