Update:
I’ve been using the vest for two weeks during my commute home and on rainy or foggy days. From the first day, I noticed an immediate change in behavior from most vehicles around me. They do not travel as close behind as before. Perhaps the back area of the vest provides a better reference for judging the distance between or visibility alone got their attention. Either way I am a bit more relieved.
However, I don’t want anyone to think that becoming more visible is reason to not continue to be defensive. Busa-Boy33 had a good point: “Personally I feel that having a bit of these things (referring to extra lighting, reflective gear) will help but honestly becoming more of a defensive rider will go further in helping you to avoid accidents.”
And this, taken from another site really helped Busa’s point sink in:
“There is no magic bullet that will keep someone from running a biker over. Many theorize that its often over-aggressive drivers who merely use the excuse of visibility once they hit a bike.”
In short, I feel better wearing the vest and believe that it increases my probability of getting home safe, but I’m not relying on it.
Take care,
__________________
-Sandman
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