this post was submitted on 21 Jul 2023
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Toronto
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Taking the lane isn't intentionally blocking cars, but forcing them to pass safely. By moving as close to the curb as possible you're encouraging cars to pass when it isn't safe, especially since the area of the road near the curb is the roughest and may require some manoeuvring around.
This car straight up went right behind the bike and hit them, probably frustrated at not being able to get around easily.
Agreed that generally taking the lane is to force cars to notice you and not encourage them to pass when it isn't safe. For instance, in Toronto there's a lot of construction happening, so sometimes there will be two lanes that merge into one for a short bit because of the construction (Bloor around Parliament/Sherbourne is an example). In those circumstances, I'll clearly take the lane. But when it's a regular two lane road at a traffic stop, I won't, because there's enough room for a car and bike to be side by side in these circumstances. Yes, I realize it's perfectly legal for me to take the lane, but, just as I appreciate cars that give me space, I also feel it's a good practice to give cars space as well. To be clear, I'm not excusing the reckless and criminal behaviour of the car driver. The actions of the car driver were criminal and he should face the full force of law.