Be Kind to Bikers

The U.K.'s "Think Biker" campaign has me really thinking. That's what we need in this homeland. A new public awareness campaign this side of the sea that really defends bikers and teaches all motorists to give us some room and some respect. That whole campaign was based on the fact that if you know a biker you are more aware of and careful around bikers. I like that.

Whatever the message we need it to go out fast because there are some people out there who REALLY need to hear it.

Late last summer Bob and I were rolling west on Rt. 322 when a minivan pulled out of a side street into our lane to head west ahead of us. Too bad we were so close that we almost slammed into their rear window. Bob handled the situation well and, as is custom, gave the bike horn a work out. (why aren't bike horns louder - they can save a life, y'know!?)

This situation is not unusual. All bikers have had too many cagers take a turn into or across their path. What made this situation different was the attitude of the adult female driver. And I use the term "adult" to indicate age not maturity. She decided to cheer us up by waving out her window in a happy manner. Then her young teen daughter did the same out the passenger window. Then they waved again - and again - and again and then they dangled their socked feet were out the window and honked their own horn.

For ten minutes they showed us how happy they were that we had nearly wrecked.

Nice.

Nice to teach the next generation to be so self - centered. How nice to come close to causing an accident and then take the time to belittle, taunt and generally make yourself look like an idiot AND teach the next generation to do the same.

Really nice.

Now what would truly be nice is if we could all share the road with some respect. If you're a biker - let everyone know. If you're not, put yourselves in our boots and imagine. See the bike, save a life.

For more on the Think! campaign you can see the Facebook page or visit their website.