I share your frustration with overly solicitous drivers. My ride in SF was littered with four-way stops, and I got quite good at coming to a complete stop without getting off the pedals. But then some friendly driver would wave me through, and the half second of hesitation would cause me to lurch forward and lose my balance. If they had just taken the right of way when it belonged to them, we all would have been on our ways sooner -- and happier.

Now in Chicago, I've noticed more than a few drivers who feel it necessary to honk at me as I drive in the bike lane. I think they're just letting me know they're there (vs. trying to get me off the road), but thanks anyway, folks, that's why I've got a rearview mirror and my very own lane on the road.
Gordo | 11.01.06 - 10:53 am | #

Christopher, I've noticed the very same problems you are describing - the same behavior at stop signs and swinging too far into the other lane to pass me, even though I'm on the extreme right side of the road. Education is needed!
Bill Ostrem | Homepage | 04.20.07 - 11:40 am | #