Basic Road Sense for cyclists

BASIC ROAD SENSE FOR CYCLISTS

As well as the Highway Code Rules for Cyclists about which you need to be aware, there are some basic common sense considerations to make when you’re cycling on the road.

Some cyclists insist on skipping red lights and jumping on and off the pavement to get past traffic. You shouldn’t get into the habit of either as accidents can occur and it might not necessarily be you that gets hurt.

Adopt a confidence stance when cycling and avoid dithering when changing lanes or turning. Let drivers know what you’re planning to do well in advance and signal clearly before every manoeuvre.

Get used to anticipating what other drivers are planning to do, for example, if a car in front of you slows down and veers to the right, they may be making a right turn without using their indicator.

Always cycle a car's door width away from parked cars and don’t allow yourself to be pushed in.

Watch out for large vehicles such as buses and lorries whose drivers are high up and may not see you. Avoid cycling alongside them in case they have to suddenly turn in towards you.

When cycling behind open-backed buses be prepared for people jumping off into the road.

Try to cycle in a straight line and avoid swinging out suddenly to avoid glass or potholes unless you’re sure there’s no traffic behind you.

Make eye contact with drivers at junctions so they know you’re there, and watch out for drivers making left turns.

Avoid getting into rows. Road rage takes on a whole new meaning when it involves a juggernaut and bicycle! If you think someone has driven dangerously, take a note of the registration number and report it to the police.

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The following additional safety measure have been sent in my Sarah Bowyer -

"I always try to cycle at least two feet from the kerb or on the road signs of the yellow lines. This means that car driver take me more seriously and don't try to squeeze me into the kerb; cars and lorries slow down before overtaking me, meaning that I am less likely to be caught by a "whoosh" of air as they pass at speed. Also if I do hit a pot hole, skid or swerve I have more room to correct before hitting the kerb".