Everett, Wash.
Published: Friday, May 9, 2008

Drivers must look out for motorcycles

 I am an avid biker (motorcyclist). Twice in one week now I have been nearly pushed off the road or into oncoming traffic by drivers not paying attention to where they are going. I am a cautious rider and have been riding since before I could drive. I ride a big loud American bike and ride rather defensively. Lucky for the drivers, in both cases I had escape routes planned.

I, like many riders, commute to work and back as often as possible on my bike. I live in Lake Stevens and work in Bellevue. In my commute I use the main roads. Both incidents could have been easily avoided if the drivers in question would have taken the time to glance to their left to ensure the space they were about to attempt to occupy was indeed empty. I find this laziness and lack of attention to be unacceptable to anyone who has earned the privilege to be a licensed driver. (Driving is a privilege, not a right.)

Anyone on the road, be it a driver or a rider, please be cognizant of those around you. The safety of others and yourself is in your hands when you operate a vehicle. Please be safe when you drive.



Kevin Toadvine

Lake Stevens
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA