Drivers, bikers must learn to coexist

In response to “Bicycling and the laws of common sense” on Nov. 12 by columnist Froma Harrop, I am growing tired of constantly hearing how bikes are terrible and should be banished from all roads. People need to accept that bikers are simply not going anywhere and the number of them will only grow every year. Yes, we know that it’s dangerous, but the benefits far outweigh the risks. Like you, we are also commuters.

The space between the parked cars and your car is called the bike lane. While driving in college areas and all areas where there are parked cars you should assume there will be someone on a bike. Four-lane roads are tough. Most bikers try to avoid these streets, but sometimes there is no way around them.

Most the time when the right lane is needed, cars slow down and go around the bikers. This usually only takes about 15 to 30 seconds to clear the bikers. Most of the people passing by me in cars do not seem to have a problem with that.

Instead of complaining about people on bikes sharing the road with cars, why not lobby for more legitimate bike lanes so we can all commute more safely?

Mike Smolenski

Mount Prospect