A poem for monday morning

On the road in traffic,
maintain your position.
Be obvious, not erratic.

Signal your intention,
to change your position,
by turning your head and
lifting your arm.

You must be aware
of blind spots
in the mirrors of other drivers.

You must behave
as if you are a driver.
You are NOT invisible!

Try continuously to see
the surface of the road,
looking for potholes, slick paint, rail tracks, obstacles,
as well as the flow of traffic.

See, hear & feel.
Observe everything,
but avoid distractions.
Don't use an iPod.
Be present and alert always.

Change to a low gear,
before you come to a stop.

Your front brake is powerful, use it
as you shift your balance.
backwards and down.

Your back brake
will skid the rear wheel,
if you squeeze too hard.

Above all,
cooperate with others.
Practice harmony
but be ready to respond
Instantaneously.

Do not be afraid,
there is nothing to fear,
but fear itself.

by
Graham Cooper
Executive Director
Bicycle Driver Training Institute
http://www.bicycledriver.org
206-325-6551

BDTI is a Seattle non-profit with 501c3 status.