Put the pedal to the metal safely

It’s road racing season for cyclists and those training are urged to be cautious and obey the rules of the road.

The months of February and March generally see a congested road racing calendar for cyclists across the country.

Many cyclists are training for these events, especially in preparation for the Cape Town Cycle Tour (March 6).

With the increase in cyclists on the roads comes an increased risk of cyclists being hit by a vehicle.

The Pedal Power Association (PPA) launched a major “Safe Cycling” campaign towards the end of 2011, striving to focus attention on a safe passing distance between vehicles and cyclists.

Part of this campaign means that cyclists need to know HOW and WHERE they can ride their bicycles.

Rather than asking where they can ride – what about those roads that cyclists are NOT permitted to cycle on?

These are either FREEWAYS or areas where Cycling Prohibited signs are displayed .

Simply put, “freeways” are designated as such in terms of the National Road Traffic Act. These may have different designations (N – National, R – Provincial or M – Municipal) – but if the following signs are displayed anywhere, YOU MAY NOT CYCLE there.

You can ride on any other road where it makes sense to do so safely!

So, what happens if you get hit by a vehicle when you are cycling on a road where you are not supposed to be?

1. Your chances of surviving are slim and, at best, you will probably be severely injured.

2. You are committing a traffic offence and you could be charged.

3. Your insurances may not cover you or your bicycle.

Considering the above, it just doesn’t seem worth the risk.

What then? Where and how do we ride?

We ask that motorists respect us and the laws and as cyclists we need to do the same.

Only by riding responsibly where we are permitted to can we expect other road users to respect us.

Respect the laws, respect other road users: it’s a two-way street. Live to enjoy the rides!

Read more about the Pedal Power Association and their Safe Cycling and other campaigns on www.pedalpower.org.za.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join us on BBM at 59015786
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.