What started as a regular Saturday “Old Farts” group ride quickly escalated when a driver turned onto the main street and accelerated straight toward the group. Thankfully, it was all captured on camera, a powerful reminder that recording your ride is one of the most effective ways to hold dangerous drivers accountable.
UpRide turns daily rides into data that drives change.
Every UpRider has a story. Here is Paul’s.
What happened prior to this incident and why do you record your ride?
This was just a regular Saturday Old Farts group ride. We didn’t have any prior interaction with this driver.
As you can see in the video, the driver turns onto the main street from a side street and immediately speeds toward us. There was no build-up or exchange beforehand, it all happened right after they entered the road.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
I feel most vulnerable on narrow roads with high traffic. I also feel vulnerable when motorists are impatient and try to rush past without enough room.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road?
First, I strive to ride in a safe manner. I always wear visible clothing and ride with lights, front and back. I take the lane when there is not safe space for a vehicle to pass safely. I also pull to the side to let vehicles pass when it is safe to do so.
The roads are a shared space. We need to look out for each other. Bicycles, pedestrians, and vehicles all need to look out for each other.
I have reported several instances of bad driving to local authorities because accountability is part of improving safety.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
I sent an email with the video to the Vallejo Police Department. I received a reply that the email was being forwarded to the traffic division. I have not heard back from traffic yet.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
Keep riding. Control the things that you can: be visible. Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t let a few bad drivers get you down.
Most of all, have fun. I always tell people, “I’m on a bike; it is a good day.”
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