Why doesn't everyone think like me? >>> meaning Why doesn't everyone ride like me?
If this "cycling/auto interaction situation" resulted in a death or serious injury - and went to a trial - the prevailing argument might be the "reasonable act" theory.
In other words - when ever weird crap happens in the public space, be reasonable. Act reasonable, Its a good defense to being in the wrong.
Just because someone thinks or knows he/she can do something safely - doesn't make it reasonable........ but i could be wrong.