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I ride this section of Mission daily and always take the lane. Most of the time there are no cars behind me but when there are they usually slow down to let me have the lane. Not taking the lane here only invites trouble.
bill
Here's a courtesy trick that works well for me: After I'm controlling the lane, I use a "right turn" signal (right arm straight out) to indicate that I plan to move to the right. It's literally true; I'm going to move into the bike lane after I get through the underpass.
People react surprisingly well to this signal.
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 1:23 PM mdavis94536 < mark@...> wrote: Also agree that when taking the lane you should be courteous about it - recognize that you *are* inconveniencing someone, so be as quick about it as you can. Sharing the road works best when we are all respectful of each other.
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Here's a courtesy trick that works well for me: After I'm controlling the lane, I use a "right turn" signal (right arm straight out) to indicate that I plan to move to the right. It's literally true; I'm going to move into the bike lane after I get through the underpass.
People react surprisingly well to this signal.
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 1:23 PM mdavis94536 < mark@...> wrote: Also agree that when taking the lane you should be courteous about it - recognize that you *are* inconveniencing someone, so be as quick about it as you can. Sharing the road works best when we are all respectful of each other.
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Agree with all of these points. The sidewalk is safer from the point of view of vehicle traffic, but the surface may pose other hazards.
Also agree that when taking the lane you should be courteous about it - recognize that you *are* inconveniencing someone, so be as quick about it as you can. Sharing the road works best when we are all respectful of each other.
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 1:00 PM William Ho < willho99@...> wrote: Just be very careful in the sidewalk. A car was getting towed at the spot in the photo some years ago, so I thought the tow truck will draw to much attention if I went thru the subway so I took the sidewalk! 🤦♂️Hit the uneven sidewalk such that both hands fell off the bars at 12mph (power data shows it), front wheel into the grass rut and went over my bars. Favorite REI wind jacket & Giro Prolight helmet ruined! 😡
I take the full lane and decision to do it at the traffic light is done if it’s red, and the white hashed are is rather large, so be emphatic that you are taking the lane via arm signal We really don’t want cars changing lanes under the tracks. Also show you are trying by making a mini sprint, and don’t take your sweet time. —William On Mar 20, 2021, at 12:16 PM, mdavis94536 <mark@...> wrote:
Nice!
I would argue though that that shouldn't even be marked as a bike lane. It's marked as such at the intersection as you enter, but then it just tapers down to nothing without warning, essentially.
BTW one alternative is to just take the sidewalk through the tunnel. A bit inconvenient, but AFAIK legal, and at the very least morally justifiable. <image.png> I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff? Julie On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Gayle Tupper <gayletupper@...>
It may be complicated to get help from the City of Fremont because Mission Blvd is also State Hwy 262, and CalTrans may need to be involved. They only rush if they see an imminent hazard. The City and CalTrans probably have to coordinate, which could also cause additional delays.
I know that there are long-term plans to replace that overpass, but any timeline on that is likely optimistic relative to reality.
Just be very careful in the sidewalk. A car was getting towed at the spot in the photo some years ago, so I thought the tow truck will draw to much attention if I went thru the subway so I took the sidewalk! 🤦♂️Hit the uneven sidewalk such that both hands fell off the bars at 12mph (power data shows it), front wheel into the grass rut and went over my bars. Favorite REI wind jacket & Giro Prolight helmet ruined! 😡
I take the full lane and decision to do it at the traffic light is done if it’s red, and the white hashed are is rather large, so be emphatic that you are taking the lane via arm signal We really don’t want cars changing lanes under the tracks. Also show you are trying by making a mini sprint, and don’t take your sweet time. —William On Mar 20, 2021, at 12:16 PM, mdavis94536 <mark@...> wrote:
Nice!
I would argue though that that shouldn't even be marked as a bike lane. It's marked as such at the intersection as you enter, but then it just tapers down to nothing without warning, essentially.
BTW one alternative is to just take the sidewalk through the tunnel. A bit inconvenient, but AFAIK legal, and at the very least morally justifiable. <image.png> I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff? Julie On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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William Ho <willho99@...>
Just be very careful in the sidewalk. A car was getting towed at the spot in the photo some years ago, so I thought the tow truck will draw to much attention if I went thru the subway so I took the sidewalk! 🤦♂️Hit the uneven sidewalk such that both hands fell off the bars at 12mph (power data shows it), front wheel into the grass rut and went over my bars. Favorite REI wind jacket & Giro Prolight helmet ruined! 😡
I take the full lane and decision to do it at the traffic light is done if it’s red, and the white hashed are is rather large, so be emphatic that you are taking the lane via arm signal We really don’t want cars changing lanes under the tracks. Also show you are trying by making a mini sprint, and don’t take your sweet time.
On Mar 20, 2021, at 12:16 PM, mdavis94536 <mark@...> wrote:
Nice!
I would argue though that that shouldn't even be marked as a bike lane. It's marked as such at the intersection as you enter, but then it just tapers down to nothing without warning, essentially.
BTW one alternative is to just take the sidewalk through the tunnel. A bit inconvenient, but AFAIK legal, and at the very least morally justifiable. <image.png> I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff? Julie On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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To reduce/end any ambiguity the sign might say “bicycles take full lane through underpass “.
On Mar 19, 2021, at 11:19 PM, tburmas via groups.io <tburmas@...> wrote:
Hello, I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident. I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection. Any suggestions are welcome, Ted
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Nice!
I would argue though that that shouldn't even be marked as a bike lane. It's marked as such at the intersection as you enter, but then it just tapers down to nothing without warning, essentially.
BTW one alternative is to just take the sidewalk through the tunnel. A bit inconvenient, but AFAIK legal, and at the very least morally justifiable.
 I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff? Julie On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Mar 20, 2021, at 10:29 AM, Yahoo-Julie via groups.io <jmgilson1@...> wrote:
I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff? Julie On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
On 03/19/2021 11:36 PM Ken Goldman <ken.goldman@...> wrote:
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
On Mar 19, 2021, at 11:19 PM, tburmas via groups.io <tburmas@...> wrote:
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Matt Kihlthau <mkihlthau@...>
I agree 100% that you can and must take the lane here. I will note that I’ve had cars honk at me from behind when doing so under this particular underpass numerous times. Once was quite loud as it was a big rig. This is not because I jumped in front of them at the last second, but simply because they were impatient.
It would be nice if the “share the road” sign reduces this honking, but probably won’t as this signage is very unclear to me as well. I do like some of the “bicycles may use full lane” signs.
Matt Kihlthau
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 10:52 AM mdavis94536 < mark@...> wrote: Right. And even though you have the legal right to take the lane in such a situation, it's still a very good idea to communicate unambiguously to motorists that you are doing so. So when you take the lane, take it like you mean it and go right out in the middle of the lane.
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 10:39 AM Vinnie Bacon < vbacon@...> wrote: I agree with Ken that you simply need to take the lane and make it clear that there is no room to safely pass you within the lane. My habits have changed of late and I no longer think that it’s ‘courteous’ to try to move to the right so people can pass you. I used to stay to the right, have someone come really close to me and THEN decide that I’m taking the whole lane. Now I just take the lane. The bottom line is that if you don’t feel that it’s safe sharing the lane then you need to tell motorists it’s not safe to share the lane. You do that by taking the lane. I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff?
On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section. Ted, I go through there quite often without any problem. I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane. Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Right. And even though you have the legal right to take the lane in such a situation, it's still a very good idea to communicate unambiguously to motorists that you are doing so. So when you take the lane, take it like you mean it and go right out in the middle of the lane.
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 10:39 AM Vinnie Bacon < vbacon@...> wrote: I agree with Ken that you simply need to take the lane and make it clear that there is no room to safely pass you within the lane. My habits have changed of late and I no longer think that it’s ‘courteous’ to try to move to the right so people can pass you. I used to stay to the right, have someone come really close to me and THEN decide that I’m taking the whole lane. Now I just take the lane. The bottom line is that if you don’t feel that it’s safe sharing the lane then you need to tell motorists it’s not safe to share the lane. You do that by taking the lane. I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff?
On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section. Ted, I go through there quite often without any problem. I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane. Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Julie, Great idea! I just did it...
Request ID# 1925391 - New Sign (Traffic Signs) |
A comment has been added to New Sign (Traffic Signs) Service Request ID# 1925391: Thank you for contacting the City of Fremont. Your concerns are important to us. If additional information is needed, a representative will contact you. You will be updated on the status of your request using the email address provided.
Thank you,
Fremont
On Mar 20, 2021, at 10:29 AM, Julie Gilson < jmgilson1@...> wrote:
I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff? Julie On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Agree with everything that has been said so far. I'll just add that this is one of many situations where staying as far to the right as possible Is not the same as staying as far to the right as practicable (which is what the law says). Sharrows and "Share the Road" signs are great — and this section certainly needs to be better signed — but they have no impact on how you should ride that section of the road. Take the lane when you need to, the signage is just there to remind drivers.
-Daniel
On Sat, Mar 20, 2021 at 10:39 AM Vinnie Bacon < vbacon@...> wrote: I agree with Ken that you simply need to take the lane and make it clear that there is no room to safely pass you within the lane. My habits have changed of late and I no longer think that it’s ‘courteous’ to try to move to the right so people can pass you. I used to stay to the right, have someone come really close to me and THEN decide that I’m taking the whole lane. Now I just take the lane. The bottom line is that if you don’t feel that it’s safe sharing the lane then you need to tell motorists it’s not safe to share the lane. You do that by taking the lane. I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff?
On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section. Ted, I go through there quite often without any problem. I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane. Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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I agree with Ken that you simply need to take the lane and make it clear that there is no room to safely pass you within the lane. My habits have changed of late and I no longer think that it’s ‘courteous’ to try to move to the right so people can pass you. I used to stay to the right, have someone come really close to me and THEN decide that I’m taking the whole lane. Now I just take the lane. The bottom line is that if you don’t feel that it’s safe sharing the lane then you need to tell motorists it’s not safe to share the lane. You do that by taking the lane.
From: info@ffbc.groups.io <info@ffbc.groups.io> On Behalf Of Yahoo-Julie via groups.io Sent: Saturday, March 20, 2021 10:30 AM To: Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> Cc: Ken Goldman <ken.goldman@...>; tburmas@...; info@ffbc.groups.io Subject: Re: [public info] Help with tricky traffic situation I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff?
On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section. Ted, I go through there quite often without any problem. I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
On Mar 19, 2021, at 11:19 PM, tburmas via groups.io <tburmas@...> wrote:
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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I’m not aware of a ‘share the road’ sign or a sharrow marked on the road - worthwhile contacting City’s Public Works staff?
On Mar 20, 2021, at 7:37 AM, Joe Banchero <huck-162@...> wrote:
Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
On 03/19/2021 11:36 PM Ken Goldman <ken.goldman@...> wrote:
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
On Mar 19, 2021, at 11:19 PM, tburmas via groups.io <tburmas@...> wrote:
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Agree with Ken, it's the only safe way to ride that section.
On 03/19/2021 11:36 PM Ken Goldman <ken.goldman@...> wrote:
Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
On Mar 19, 2021, at 11:19 PM, tburmas via groups.io <tburmas@...> wrote:
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here:
https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Absolutely - this is a classic example of a situation where you should ("must", even, I would argue) take the lane. There is not enough room to share the lane with a car/truck/van. Wait for an opening, but when it comes, get out there, be completely unambiguous, and assert your rights. Attempting to share the lane is an accident waiting to happen.
Hi Ted,
I agree, that's a tricky section of road and I always dread riding through that tunnel. Sorry to hear that you had a bad experience there today.
My approach is to "take the lane," as they say. Before doing so, I double check that there is no traffic immediately behind me, signal my intentions, and then ride in the center of the right lane until the shoulder widens enough to safely return there. I generally turn this into a mini sprint as to minimize the time I'm mixed up with traffic, as well as to minimize the speed differential. Taking the lane in this area (as well as any other area where it is not possible/safe for both a bike and car to fit safely) is within our rights and is also the safer option in my opinion. The idea is that when it's not safe for a car to squeeze past, just remove the temptation for a driver to attempt to do so. The unfortunate practical side of this is that not all drivers are aware of this, and may be vocal about their objections.
CVC 21202: "ARTICLE 4. Operation of Bicycles [21200 - 21213] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 479. ) 21202. (a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
(1) When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
(2) When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(3) When reasonably necessary to avoid conditions (including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or substandard width lanes) that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge, subject to the provisions of Section 21656. For purposes of this section, a “substandard width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(4) When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway of a highway, which highway carries traffic in one direction only and has two or more marked traffic lanes, may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of that roadway as practicable." Regards, Tim
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Tim Wong <mistertimwong@...>
Hi Ted,
I agree, that's a tricky section of road and I always dread riding through that tunnel. Sorry to hear that you had a bad experience there today.
My approach is to "take the lane," as they say. Before doing so, I double check that there is no traffic immediately behind me, signal my intentions, and then ride in the center of the right lane until the shoulder widens enough to safely return there. I generally turn this into a mini sprint as to minimize the time I'm mixed up with traffic, as well as to minimize the speed differential. Taking the lane in this area (as well as any other area where it is not possible/safe for both a bike and car to fit safely) is within our rights and is also the safer option in my opinion. The idea is that when it's not safe for a car to squeeze past, just remove the temptation for a driver to attempt to do so. The unfortunate practical side of this is that not all drivers are aware of this, and may be vocal about their objections.
CVC 21202: "ARTICLE 4. Operation of Bicycles [21200 - 21213] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 479. ) 21202. (a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at that time shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
(1) When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
(2) When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
(3) When reasonably necessary to avoid conditions (including, but not limited to, fixed or moving objects, vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards, or substandard width lanes) that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge, subject to the provisions of Section 21656. For purposes of this section, a “substandard width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(4) When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway of a highway, which highway carries traffic in one direction only and has two or more marked traffic lanes, may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of that roadway as practicable." Regards, Tim
Hello,
I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident.
I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection.
Any suggestions are welcome,
Ted
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Ted,
I go through there quite often without any problem.
I wait for a gap in traffic, signal with my left arm, and move to the center of the right lane. When there is no bike lane, taking the entire lane is the only safe option. If a car does come up behind me, it will either have to wait ten seconds while I go under the underpass or it can move to the other lane.
On Mar 19, 2021, at 11:19 PM, tburmas via groups.io <tburmas@...> wrote:
Hello, I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident. I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection. Any suggestions are welcome, Ted
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Hello, I've had yet another dangerous encounter under the bridge on Mission Blvd between Stevenson traveling to Las Palmas. The location is here: https://goo.gl/maps/7JUqT2xFAeVYVmzU7 For years I've dreaded this section as the bike lane narrows to inches. Today a minivan honked me as I was entering then passed me (also inches away). I was as far right as I could be with a flashing red LED during daylight - I wasn't doing anything odd. The horn scared me and I got quite upset that the driver almost caused an accident. I'm looking for pointers on how to ride this section. Going the opposite direction I momentarily hop onto the sidewalk as I feel safer (it also has a bike lane that narrows to inches). I might have to do the same for the direction I had an issue with today and go into the mini tunnel. I generally don't do this as I never see an easy/safe entrance as most cars are trying to make a right on Mission from Stevenson and block the sidewalk ramp at the intersection. Any suggestions are welcome, Ted
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