Bike lanes prevent over-correction by drivers, bicyclists reducing danger for both even when sharing narrow roads
From the University of Texas at Austin

A Comparative Analysis of Bicycle Lanes Versus Wide Curb Lanes:
Final Report
USDOT PUBLICATION NO. FHWA-RD-99-034

Bicycle Lanes Versus Wide Curb Lanes: Operational and Safety Findings and Countermeasure Recommendations
USDOT PUBLICATION NO. FHWA-RD-99-035

How Bike Paths and Lanes Make a Difference
From Reasearch and Inovative Technology Administration
Bureau of Transportation Statistics