With cycling proving to be a popular and convenient way to get around, it is vital to stay alert when sharing the road with vulnerable road users. Here are some tips on what to look out for in summer traffic from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards Richard Gladman.
- Be aware of cyclists and scooters and remember to check your mirrors and blind spots before moving off and turning. Expect the unexpected.
- Junctions are the most dangerous locations for cyclists.Drivers tend to see only the biggest vehicles and miss the smaller and unprotected cyclist.
- Pay attention to what’s going on around you. Even though you are looking for a chance to move off you should also be prepared to stop.
- Be patient. Driving aggressively and sounding your horn can cause confusion for cyclists and lead to accidents.
- Cyclists will always be slower than your car so keep a constant watch on your approach speed to avoid running into the back of a cyclist.
- Give riders space when overtaking.Give at least a car’s width as you overtake.
- Try walking in their shoes. Consider riding a bicycle for some of your own journeys to get an understanding of some of the challenges cyclists face.
- Look out for children cycling off the pavement and on to the road.In the summer they may be playing unsupervised and when the schools recommence they may also be on unfamiliar roads to their new school.
Richard added: “With interest in cycling at an all-time high it is inevitable more riders will take to the road to emulate their Olympic heroes. Until we have more extensive cycling infrastructure, responsible and safe driving is the only way to ensure the wellbeing of all road users.”
