From what I have heard, In the collision with the garbage truck, the bike was comming from the back of the truck and did not pay attention to the turn signal. A box in front of the truck would not have helped.

Common sense must be used. A biker (I am one) should know that if he can't see the drivers mirrors, the driver can't see him. It is not a contest. We all have to work together.

Suggestion: Bike riders need to take a class just like that requied for motorcycle riders (I am also a motercycle rider). They should then get a license endorsement just like motorcycle riders, if they are to share the roadways. In many ways, both modes are very similar. I often ride accross a bridge with two lanes each direction and a 14 inch wide sidewalk (not a bike lane), which I will not take, do to the very low railing). Instead I act like a motercycle rider. The car drivers understand this and cooperate. As soon as the bike lane re-starts I make it clear that I am leaving the roadway. Not one driver has ever even honked.