After publishing two articles calling for Charlotte-area drivers to be more considerate of bicyclists, the comments on the online version were so numerous and hateful that the paper closed them down.
From the Charlotte Observer editorial commenting on the slew of "venom-filled" comments that were posted to these articles:
"When you're driving somewhere in a hurry - and who isn't in a hurry these days? - having to slow down for a bicyclist can be as annoying as ...
As annoying as having to slow down to let a frail elderly person or a mother with a stroller cross the street.
As annoying as having to repeat something to a deaf grandfather.
As annoying as waiting in line at the movies or to get into a popular restaurant.
Yes, some things are annoying. But in a civilized community we take a deep breath, look at the big picture and cultivate some compassionate patience.
So why, after articles in Monday's Observer about tension between bicyclists and motorists, were online comments at CharlotteObserver.com so venom-filled they had to be cut off? Why do bicyclists make so many motorists' blood boil?"
FULL STORY: Cyclists, motorists alike should chill, obey laws
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UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
City of Piedmont, CA
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research