A bike rider died while I was holding his hand. I watched the lights go out in his eyes. This was two years ago in Adams Morgan; dusk, rush hour. I was the first pedestrian on the scene. (Yep, to those who might slam me for holding his hand, I have advanced first aid training.) Since, I have NEVER felt at ease driving in DC...around other cars, pedestrians or bike riders. Human beings are unpredictable: Accidents happen. The driver of the car who hit him left the scene. The bicyclist was dressed entirely in black with no helmet on. The driver may have been unable to see him, but the driver was a true asshole for leaving. I never knew if they caught the driver/no police officer ever called me to follow-up.
I am now accutely aware of how many blind spots my car has, and how reckless some bikers are. It isn't worth "making your point" no matter which side you're on.
This week's accident happened on a street with a newly marked, separate bike lane. Even under the best circumstances, trucks/suvs/and most passenger cars have blind spots.
This is a tragedy for all. If you value your life, watch out for the other guy no matter WHAT you're doing. For those who can't accept sharing the road and sidewalk with other "assholes": move to Mars.