>>545973>He drew on research from the University of Bath which suggests that drivers get around three inches closer to cyclists wearing helmets because they view them as saferGenerally they are, and if the cyclist wears a cycling suit, that's even better. Drunks, old people, kids, you can't expect them to drive straight. If there's oncoming traffic, you stop and wait until there isn't, or you slow down considerably when passing them.
Every inch away from the cyclist, is an inch closer the oncoming car/truck even when you stay on your own lane. The oncoming car may be driven by a drunk or by someone playing with an iPhone. The oncoming car may not stay on it's lane. The thing I fear the most when cycling is this exact scenario. The driver that is passing me suddenly panics and either hits me or forces me off the road.
>researchWas this 'research' done by a woman, by any chance? Three inches don't automatically make a passing more dangerous, assuming there's a proper distance in the first place. Six feet minus three inches is still very safe.
You're better off wearing a helmet and having cars passing you three inches closer. The real danger is someone passing you while being drunk or posting on facebook, or being an idiot. I doubt they see or care if you're wearing a helmet.
