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Here’s another “Voice of the People” contribution to the South Bend Tribune.  Please help us keep this issue in the forefront.

View other opinions at the “Voice of the People” link above.  I’ve also included the Tribune’s contact information so you can write your own opinion on bike safety or drunk driving.

Public Outcry

August 21, 2008

I am writing in response to comments in the wake of the recent death of Patrick Sawyer, who was killed after being hit by a car while riding his bicycle.

I can now understand the public outcry concerning the need for bicycle lanes for riders, but more importantly, for drivers to be more aware of those who do ride bikes.

Recently, I rode my bike to work for the first time. There are no bicycle lanes where I had to ride. I made a point of planning the safest route and rode on the defensive at all times.

I was shocked at the many drivers who appeared not to see me, speeding past so close I could have reached out and touched their cars.

At one point, I rode through a small subdivision in order to avoid the main roads. While I was riding near the curb, a car backed out of a driveway without looking to see if the way was clear. The driver nearly backed into me and if I hadn’t seen him he would have hit me. I politely said he should “look before backing out.” He then promptly flipped me off and sped away.

I, too, want to ask drivers to slow down and pay more attention. Bicycles are everywhere now because of the gasoline prices. Please don’t let another accidental death be the reason you begin to drive carefully.

Meg Mark
South Bend