Parked illegally in bike lane starts up without even looking in his mirror!

Paris, France

4 Feb, 2026 - 3 weeks ago - on Rue De Charenton
He was parked on a bike lane protected by a cement curb (!!!) and started his truck without checking his mirrors, despite the fact that cyclists could be approaching. This kind of inattention is exactly what leads to accidents.

I was extremely visible: wearing a helmet with a strong front light, an additional long lamp, a headlight, and a high-visibility yellow jacket. Had the driver simply looked in his mirrors, the situation — and the pain that followed — could have been avoided.

I reacted as a cyclist should, which helped prevent a more serious outcome. While the driver did apologize, operating a vehicle — especially a truck — requires constant attention to vulnerable road users. Basic mirror checks are not optional.