I've been biking in Boston for, oh, 25 years and--knock on wood--have never had an accident. I stop at traffic signals, but don't stand and wait for a green light if there's nothing coming, either. Nor do I wear a helmet. I credit the things I do, rather than the things I don't with the fact that I've remained a happy and unmaimed rider: - never ride with an ipod on. If you do, you're asking to be hurt. And you MUST watch out for walkers w/ them on who are frequently oblivious, too. - never let your mind wander or gawk around. If you want to do that, take a walk in the woods. - always know that Boston drivers will do the silliest thing they possibly could, including turning left from a right hand lane through a red light. Same goes for pedestrians. - when you're passing another biker or a pedestrian, SAY SOMETHING! "passing on your left" "excuse me, please." COMMUNICATE! - make eye contact with drivers. don't just expect that they know you're there. BE DEFENSIVE because you've got more to lose than they, in their cars, do. - don't ride too fast. sure, it's fun, but getting hit's not. - know that wearing a helmet doesn't make you a safe rider. It only protects your noggin. I've seen more people with helmets doing foolhardy things (and riding on sidewalks LOTS!) Riding in the city is a blast, but you have to be smart and be good and don't think that because you're wearing a helmet or following the rules of the road, you're covered. Defensive riding is the best way to make sure everyone stays safe and happy. It's a big responsibility and a big joy to ride in the city. There will always be people who think you almost hit them, and bikers who complain of cars coming too close. Almost only counts in horse shoes and hand grenades. In traffic, it could just as easily be called being efficient. Be careful and have fun!