Perils of riding outside the door zone in shared lanes

Had a Comcast van driver sideswipe me on Lincoln southbound today, between the Paulina station and Belmont intersection. Side of the van touched my person. I screamed (scared the shit out of me) and started hitting his car with my hand as I stopped.

He pulled over (without using his turn signal) and proceeded apologized profusely.

First time I have had that happen, fun times.

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Permalink Reply by Brendan Kevenides on April 9, 2014 at 3:11am

Renee, I'm sure that did scare the bejesus out of you. To be clear you did nothing wrong. This was entirely the driver's fault. However, clp is correct. A good way to reduce your chances of getting buzzed or side swiped is to ride further to the left. I'm glad you were not seriously hurt.

clp said:

Gee Renee...if you were sideswiped, that means you weren't riding far enough to the LEFT. At least as far as that van driver was concerned. Because he apparently thought he could "squeeze" by you.

Next time don't leave any doubt: CLAIM THE LANE!

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Permalink Reply by Jackie Weiser on April 9, 2014 at 5:29am

Since Steven is on vacation, I will suggest on his behalf that you submit a close call to this website. He is collecting data on problem areas for driver/cyclist interactions in Chicago.

http://cc.stevevance.net/

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Permalink Reply by Renee Patten on April 9, 2014 at 6:36am

Done.

Jackie Weiser said:

Since Steven is on vacation, I will suggest on his behalf that you submit a close call to this website. He is collecting data on problem areas for driver/cyclist interactions in Chicago.

http://cc.stevevance.net/