Thinking of quitting due to dangerous driving I used to cycle a lot, and decided to try taking it back up after last year's Olympics.  

But it feels like almost every time I try to go out for a ride I nearly get taken out by someone passing far too close and giving no warning.  As I'm partially sighted this is particularly terrifying.  I can spot things ahead of me with plenty of time to avoid nasty incidents if I keep my concentration up, but that leaves me less aware of what's going on behind me, and I can't see well enough to pick out number plates if I need to report someone.  I also rely on hearing to detect cars coming up but when the traffic is heavier I can't pick out individual cars over the general background roar of traffic.  

I'm in a full time job and pay my taxes just like everyone else, I've every right to be on the road.  But drivers, either through ignorance or malice are making me feel very unwelcome on the roads.  

The idea of quitting to me is galling because like I said, I have every right to be on the road, and I can see well enough to avoid getting into trouble provided the people coming up behind me don't act like morons.  But I also don't want to end up dead.  

Have you got any advice for me?  

I live in the Greater Manchester area
A few suggestions:


Get some training. This will cover things like correct road positioning, which can make a big difference to how other road users interact with you.
Try quieter routes or cycling at different times of day when there is less traffic around. This cycle route planner will help with routes.
Try to find other people to cycle with. Cycling in a group is much less intimidating, but even one other person should make a difference.
I use a mirror which helps to keep track of what's behind me. I don't know if that would work for someone who is partially sighted, but it's probably worth trying.


It's also worth remembering that the majority of cycling accidents occur at junctions. It's relatively rare for a car to drive into the back of the cyclist.