We arrived at an intersection. There was a protected bike lane on the right side of the street, next to the cars. The light was red. We were riding our bikes. My girlfriend was riding in front of me. The light turned green, we started pedaling, and as she was about to cross the intersection, a pickup truck turned right. Completely overlooking the fact that when you turn right, you have to check for pedestrians or bikers crossing.

He didn’t. And he hit my girlfriend with the side of the vehicle. She was able to unclip her shoes from the pedals as she was falling, and luckily managed to lean into the car before hitting the ground. The car stopped and she was able to hop back in her bike.

We immediately began yelling at the driver to be careful, stressing that it was his duty to check his mirrors while making a turn. Since his windows were closed, we were not sure if he heard us.

It was a scary moment. But fortunately, the car wasn't going too fast, so she wasn't injured. Then we kept riding.

Was he wrong? Of course he was! One should always look out for pedestrians and bikers when turning at an intersection, it’s a universal driving law.

But can you do anything about it? Can you do anything to make someone respect the rules in an event like this? You can’t. Unless you are a police officer and catch them in the act.

The only thing you can do is not assume that people will act like you. The reason I am a good driver and am aware of my surroundings is because I have an amazing dad who dedicated time to teach me all the driving rules, tips and tricks. Not everyone has that opportunity. And I try to always keep that in mind.

And if someone makes a mistake that directly affects you, point out the mistake. But avoid being consumed by anger. Always be alert and ready to protect yourself.

These types of events seem to happen more often than not, don't they? People honk at you when you're biking, some cut you off in traffic, some run red lights, some drive slowly in the lane that’s only for passing, and the list goes on and on. There’s always going to be such people. It’s inevitable. The world is a melting pot of humans with different degrees of development.

Don't assume they are doing it on purpose. And if they are, because some people will, let it go. Don't take it personally. Move on with your day.

Be aware of your surroundings. Keep your composure. Don't get triggered. Don't overreact. Don't let negative emotions linger in your mind. Remain calm. React only as necessary for evasive action.

Try to be an example, but don't assume someone else is going to act exactly as you would. Remember that everyone is on their unique path. Some more advanced than you, some less. They have had different experiences and might not know the things you know, or vice versa. Some people are not as self-aware or as mindful as you are in certain situations.

Listen to this email on your favorite podcast platform

Read previous posts here.