Cycling safety ahead of the festive season – share the road responsibly

The festive season is here, which usually means an increase of the number of cyclists on the road.

Cycling is one of the most affordable means of transport, great for exercising and is becoming more and more popular so there are many more cyclists out there, especially at this time of the year.

Emphasising that “cycling is part of the solution” as a mode of transport in South Africa, the Pedal Power Association’s (PPA) Stay Wider of the Rider campaign is reminding drivers and cyclists to take preventative steps to avoid collisions.

In South Africa, bicycles are considered legal vehicles and are bound to the same laws and courtesy as motor vehicles.

“The road is a shared space where all road users have rights and responsibilities,” said chairperson of PPA Steve Hayward.

Motorists

Remembering that your car is a heavy piece of machinery and that cyclists and pedestrians are vulnerable, motorists can avoid injuring cyclists by practising the following:

• Always be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for cyclists.
• When passing a cyclist, please give them at least a one-metre berth, but preferably as much room as you would give a car. Cyclists cannot keep too far left as it becomes dangerous and they may need to swerve to avoid hazards in the road. Always anticipate that there may be a pothole, an oily or wet patch, glass or some other obstruction in the cyclist’s path you cannot see.
• If you are towing a trailer or caravan, remember to give extra room when passing a cyclist and don’t cut in too early.
• Don’t drive too closely behind a cyclist – you may not be able to stop in time if they come off their bike or do something abruptly. If the road is narrow and you want to pass, rather slow down and wait until there is enough room.
• Be particularly vigilant if you see there are children riding bikes – they may do something unexpected.
• When making a left turn, remember that there could be a cyclist coming up behind you who is proceeding straight. Double check that there are no cyclists before making the turn.
• If you are turning right and there is a cyclist approaching in the opposite lane do not underestimate their speed. A cyclist can ride at up to 40km per hour, so rather pause a moment and let the cyclist through safely.
• Avoid “dooring” a cyclist – check behind you before opening your door to exit your car. Also remind your children to do the same.
• Do not park or stop in cycle lanes, it puts cyclists in even more danger when they move around your vehicle.
• Drive slowly in restricted or low visibility conditions. Remember that a cyclist could be around the next corner, so in residential areas, on rural roads or those with limited sight distance or low visibility slow down when you are not sure what is on the other side.

“For drivers, the key message is to give cyclists space when passing them or wait until you can do so safely.”