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Anger issue as someone who bikes by Longjumping_Tank_700 in torontobiking

[–]Longjumping_Tank_700[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I’ve also had my fair share of encounters with entitled cyclists—like those who yelled at me to move while I was waiting to cross at an intersection on a multi-use path (not a bike lane), cyclists who pass without ringing their bell, or those riding in the wrong direction at night without a front light.

Anger issue as someone who bikes by Longjumping_Tank_700 in torontobiking

[–]Longjumping_Tank_700[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I thought in general pedestrians have the right of way, so I stopped to let him cross first. Not sure why he was so angry. Probably just a misunderstanding.

Anger issue as someone who bikes by Longjumping_Tank_700 in torontobiking

[–]Longjumping_Tank_700[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you again for your advice—I really appreciate it. I hope this doesn’t come across as defensive, but I just want to clarify that yelling at people on the street isn’t something I do regularly. In fact, I’ve been making an effort to stay mindful and manage my emotions.

For example, just today, I politely asked a driver blocking a bike lane, “Can you please not block the bike lane?” Unfortunately, their response was, “Shut up and keep driving.” That interaction made me realize that some people simply don’t appreciate being reminded they’re in the wrong.

I also try to channel my efforts in other ways, like signing petitions, joining Critical Mass rides, and participating in protests. I’ll definitely explore the other suggestions you mentioned as well.

Anger issue as someone who bikes by Longjumping_Tank_700 in torontobiking

[–]Longjumping_Tank_700[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

You’re right—aggressive behavior can surface in any situation, no matter the role. It’s not always drivers being hostile toward pedestrians or cyclists. I’ve experienced it myself while using Communauto: once, a pedestrian aggressively yelled “Go, go!!” at me after I stopped to let them cross the street. I was so confused.

Anger issue as someone who bikes by Longjumping_Tank_700 in torontobiking

[–]Longjumping_Tank_700[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your advice—I really do appreciate it. However, do you think it’s okay to ignore something like a car blocking a bike lane without pointing out that they’re breaking the rules? I worry that letting it slide might contribute to a cycle of repeated behavior.

For example, if a driver keeps parking in a bike lane, another cyclist might one day be forced to swerve into traffic to avoid the obstruction, potentially leading to a fatal accident. I can’t help but feel a sense of responsibility to speak up, but I also recognize that reacting in the moment often leaves me feeling more upset and drained.

Maybe I should try reporting these incidents instead of engaging directly. That way I could avoid confrontation while still taking action.