More courtesy on the roads

While growing up, my friends and I spent more time on our bikes than we did walking or running. Our parents taught us the rules of the road and we logged hundreds of miles without incident, other than skinned knees or elbows.

I decided to celebrate a milestone birthday by getting a new bike. Unfortunately, the reality of biking is not the same. I had some close calls with rude or aggressive drivers. One couple’s behavior was bizarre and frightening; I haven’t ridden since that encounter.

Kentucky ranks 49th in the nation for its treatment of cyclists; I’m not surprised. Visitors remark upon how friendly, courteous and respectful Kentuckians are. Too bad we can’t seem to extend that courtesy and respect to those we share the highways with, be they in a car or on a bike. Maybe, if we did, fewer cyclists like Dr. David Cassidy would have to lose their lives.

This story was originally published April 23, 2016 at 2:21 PM with the headline "More courtesy on the roads."