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Cycling is an incredibly convenient method of travel, and a fairly cheap one as well. A growing number of people are switching to it, particularly in London where more individuals have been encouraged to move to two wheels by the new cycle highways and the cycle hire scheme. Drivers and cyclists have a long history of friction between them, but the good news is there are ways to ensure that cars and bikes can share the road in a smoother manner that is also safer for everyone.
Be aware
Cyclists are obviously a good deal more vulnerable on the road than those who are driving motor vehicles, so drivers should take particular care when they are close to cyclists, and ensure that they are always given lots of room. New drivers also need to remember that cyclists can pop up when you least expect them to, meaning that it is important always to check mirrors before making a turn. If you are uncertain as to the intentions of another driver or a cyclist, it is always better to hold back in order to determine what they do rather than risk making a wrong guess, which could result in an accident. Cyclists can also come up on the near side as drivers turn or move over to the left, so mirrors and blind spots should be carefully checked.
Be safe
As much room as is practically possible should be given when overtaking a cyclist. It is not just the width of your own vehicle that needs to be taken into account when doing so, but also other potential factors such as the likes of drains, road debris and potholes. During the parking of your vehicle, it is important to check the door mirror, and behind you prior to opening the car door, so as to make sure you do not end up hitting a cyclist. If there is a cyclist ahead of you when you are planning to make a left turn, allow them to pass the junction instead of trying to overtake them.
You should not attempt to overtake a cyclist if it is obvious that the road becomes narrower ahead, as you may end up inadvertently forcing them from the road. Prior to pulling out when you get to a junction, you should carefully judge the speed at which any cyclist is approaching, as they may be going a lot faster than you might have thought – cyclists can actually get up to 25 miles an hour. Special care also needs to be taken on roundabouts, due to the fact that drivers have to give way to any form of vehicles that approaches from the right side, including bicycles. Drivers should also avoid parking in cycle lanes, wait for a cyclist to turn right instead of losing patience and trying to overtake them, and be sure to give cyclists additional room during wet weather due to surfaces being slippery.
