What ever happened to "on your left"
Just a short vent and plea for awareness to anyone who rides in an area - path, road, trail, etc that is also frequented by walkers and runners.
I was in Yakima, Wa this weekend and left the bike at home. Found the bike/walking path along the river and enjoyed a nice brisk walk. A bit noisy as large sections are close to the freeway but still better than working out in the hotel weight room.
I came very close to being taken out by a woman on a bike - how ironic would have that been! Anyway I was walking along, stepped to my left to avoid a trial hazard just as this rider (who I couldn't hear approaching) was zipping past me, So close my shirt blew with her wind - so not passing slowly, nor making an effort to move as far to left as she could. Scared the crap out of me!
AS WE ALL KNOW, a simple "on your left" far enough back not to startle me but close enough for me to hear would have been grand. Also I advise moving as far to left as you possibly can when passing a walker,runner or fellow bike rider so that if they should take a drift to the left you are still clear of them. As a walker, I also reminded myself to look over my shoulder. I guess I could wear my helmet and attach my mirror.
Very happy to not have experienced a collision and much reminded to practice what I preach.
Happy & Safe Riding to all
Sky King
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Gilles Berthoud "Bernard"
Surly ECR "Eazi"
Empowering the Bicycle Traveler
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