How do you shrug off a close call?

[fallstoclimb]

Maybe it helps if you consider that that car driver probably got rattled too, and drove home carefully, kicking herself for being an idiot. Or you could write a letter to your local newspaper and describe the situation, just like you did here. It would reach somebody, and help them be just that much more attentive.

Good luck!

This is true. She did get rattled. She came to a stop once in her lane, even though there was no collision, clearly because she was surprised and confused. We not-so-nicely yelled obscenities at her, but you know, that's what happens when your adrenaline shoots way up.

I don't actually think that a front light would have helped in that situation, but I may get one anyway just so I can feel a little better about doing SOMETHING.

[Crankin]

LPH is right, in that car drivers become habituated to their feelings of security, when in reality, driving has its risks, too. I feel so much better, now that I no longer have to drive 25 miles on the freeway to get to work and drive all around to go see clients in their homes. My world is kinda small, in terms of driving and commuting by bike (it's 5.2 miles to my office), and this is by choice. I am extremely vigilant when it comes to safety, and this is what I teach others when I lead rides. Is this a guarantee? No, but I never let my guard down, especially in places where I've had close calls. I had one major "azzhole" moment this commuting season, when a school bus turned left in front of me, when crossing the highway, right across from my office. But, I was ready, expected he would do it, and I braked and slowed. Something else happened that day, can't remember what, and it did kind of get me rattled, but I keep going.

[Trek420]

This is true. She did get rattled. She came to a stop once in her lane, even though there was no collision, clearly because she was surprised and confused. We not-so-nicely yelled obscenities at her, but you know, that's what happens when your adrenaline shoots way up.

I don't actually think that a front light would have helped in that situation, but I may get one anyway just so I can feel a little better about doing SOMETHING.

I'm glad the driver stopped. I am so sorry this happened to you.

We take a risk each day just getting out of bed. I ride to work about once a week, a car free route that parallels my drive. It's the four days I drive the route that makes me nervous; 4 lanes, fast traffic, no divider. There are often head on accidents. A few weeks ago a close friend was rear ended on the route while driving. The obviously distracted driver hit her hard enought that her car flipped over, spun 180, hit the embankment and flipped back on her wheels.

She's fine though still finding tiny bits of glass in her hair.

Every day above ground is a bonus and a day we should ride.

[fallstoclimb]

Every day above ground is a bonus and a day we should ride.

OH. Yes, THIS! This is what I was looking for. People elsewhere told me to be grateful I was alive, and instead I was focusing on the what-ifs and how to limit risk - but this shift in thinking just clicked for me. I've seen enough now to see lots of freak accidents, awful things, but I have focused on the fear rather than the gratitude. Thank you.

[azfiddle]

So happy you are safe. Sounds like good advice to focus on the positive.

[fallstoclimb]

Trek420, thanks again for the advice. You actually inspired me to write a whole blog post on this

http://www.mindfulriot.com/suddenly-...and-gratitude/