Most of us have no trouble seeing the divide between cars and bikes from both sides, as most of us are both cyclists and drivers. Sure, there are a few purists on both sides. And among the purists, there are even some nut cases.

I’ve used that label in the past freely, but now it looks like the question will get its day in court. Story today about the motorist charged with attempted homicide in Multnomah County. It seems that Johhny Eschweiler may have gone all mental in a road rage incident.  According to the news report, a near miss by the driver led the cyclist to confront the driver shortly after. Apparently, Mr. Eschweiler then tried to kill the cyclists.

At least, that’s the implication, because his attorney indicated that he will plead guilty except for insanity defense.  I’m no expert on criminal law, but I assume that means more than road rage.

It’s tough on the roads. Despite Pdx’s great rah-rah rep as a bike friendly place, cyclists are exposed in most parts of our beloved city. We’re at the mercy of behemouths out there.  And of course, those of us who drive have had to dodge cyclists doing amazingly stupid things, like the guy who blew through the stop sign in front of me yesterday on his bike, carrying bags, no helmet, maybe an i-pod…. Thanks for that scare, pal.

If you find this annoying because you’re on one side or the other, know that I sit on both sides. I ride, I drive, and I represent cyclists and drivers.  Still, road rage is a killer. Maybe the lesson here is that we can all stand to take a deep breath and try to share the road?

David Sugerman

Tags: cyclist, driver, homicide, SE Portland