2014 was fraught with misery for the Sioux Falls bicycling community. Let’s try not to duplicate that in 2015.

Apparently there is a deep divide on how to conduct oneself on a bicycle. Over the course of one errand, I saw quite a spectrum.

On my lunch break in broad daylight a bicyclist made a left turn at a red traffic signal crossing three lanes to do so. No idea if this man was on the sidewalk or in the turning lane when he bolted into the flow. He must have thought it was safe, but as sure as the sun comes up in the morning that was illegal.

Near the two-thirds mark of my errand, I see another bicycler as I prepare to make a left turn. This rider was clearly visible on the sidewalk and had a walk signal. I was prepared to let him cross the street before I made my turn. He stops and waves me through and another car behind me before he crossed the street.

There’s no doubt which encounter was more pleasing. I can’t expect all cyclists or vehicles to conduct themselves within the letter of the law at all times. Even myself as a driver I make mistakes and push the envelope.

For those who operate in the driving space fully exposed on a bicycle, you’ve got a smaller margin of error. That is the reality of your situation.

Drivers of the hulking mechanized contraptions also need to take heed. You don’t own the road. Just try to play nice.

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