Bicycle transportation is becoming far more popular, every season, in cities across the nation. With energy costs skyrocketing, including the price of gas, driving has become a virtual impossibility for some members of society, and bicycles are coming off of the garage wall in droves.

Unfortunately, at a time when bicycle riding on busy streets is at an all time high, it seems education and awareness about road safety is at an all time low! This can lead to minor altercations between bikes and vehicles, often resulting in a ding or dent on your car. What's your best scratch guard? Being an aware and courteous driver.

The two communities of cyclists and drivers often disagree and clash - sometimes, it seems they clash more than Democrats and Republicans. To many drivers, cyclists are an annoyance – taking up too much of the lane, and acting as if they are actually in a car. To many cyclists, drivers are selfish, reckless, unaware, and far too naïve of how much power they have while manning the wheels of steel. At the same time, drivers and cyclists must get on the same page, just like Republicans and Democrats must eventually come to a consensus for the greater good.

Since drivers really do have the upper hand (their method of transportation is more destructive and powerful), it makes sense to address a few things drivers can do to make the roads equally safe for everyone, including cyclists. If you are driving, and you want to approach a cyclist you are to believe is not close enough to the parked cars on the side of the road, pass him or her slowly and cautiously, and be aware of other environmental factors while doing so. Imagine what it would be like to have a car door spontaneously opened in front of you while you’re going 35 mph. After this thought experiment, you might understand why it’s not a very bright idea to drive right next to cyclists on the road. If a parked car door is to open out of nowhere, the cyclist is likely going to make a defensive move into the street. Give cyclists enough room in front, and make sure you pass only when it’s safe. Moreover, if you’re attempting to make a right turn with a cyclist ahead of you, make sure you have ample room to make the turn without them t-boning you, or, just make sure they pass in front of you beforehand.

Also, remember: if a cyclist is going the speed limit or above, it would be unlawful of you to pass him or her anyway. Take a deep breath, and know your awareness and consideration is the best and most cost-effective scratch guard for your car!