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A driver close passed UpRider S, then suddenly pulled over further down the road. Moments later, he whipped a U-turn, blared his horn, and sped past the cyclist again – this time even closer, with his horn blaring the entire way.
Every UpRider has a story. Here is Scott’s.
What happened prior to this incident and why do you record your ride?
Prior to the incident, I was enjoying a Saturday afternoon ride just like I have been for many years. I was riding at my normal pace on the right hand side of the road. I was passed without any issues from many other cars that day. I use the Cycliq Fly12 Sport to record my rides to share with fellow cyclists and as evidence in case of a mishap.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
I feel most vulnerable as a cyclist when automobile drivers are not paying attention to driving or driving erratically.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road?
I believe the most important step we can take is educating the public that roads are shared spaces, designed for many different users – including drivers, cyclists, runners, and more. Equally important is encouraging cyclists to make themselves as visible as possible to ensure safety for everyone.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
I reported the incident to local law enforcement after the incident. The law enforcement officer came to my home and took my report. He also requested that I send him the video of the incident. The officer reported back the following, “I was able to contact the driver and educate him on sharing the road with bicyclists. He showed remorse and was receptive.”
What is your advice for other cyclists?
Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings – never assume that drivers, pedestrians, or others on the road can see you. If an incident occurs, report it so law enforcement is aware and can help educate the small portion of the public who don’t fully understand the laws protecting cyclists.
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5 replies on “Scott’s Story from the United States”
Nice work! Great to see that local law enforcement were able to connect with the driver and put a stop to clearly dangerous road behaviour.
Definitely better than nothing, but also disappointing. My hope would be that if presented with clear evidence of a violation, that law enforcement would do…more. Shouldn’t there be consequences of some kind for putting a vulnerable user at risk like this? Particularly when it was so deliberate and aggressive.
Agree 100%
Yeah I see your point. It was clearly a dangerous close pass.
Unfortunately, ‘education’ and ‘remorse’ are both worthless, and may both have been made up by the police to quickly close the case. A proper penalty is the only thing which will affect a nutter driver like this. We don’t even know if this event is now on the driver’s recvord