‘Safer roads are a shared responsibility’
Speed is a major contributor to the death toll on our roads. Here are some of the most important things cyclists should do in order to stay safe on the road ...
The Pedal Power Association says drivers and cyclists are on the same side.
According to Robert Vogel, CEO of the Pedal Power Association, “We all breathe the same air, live in the same neighbourhoods, use the same shops, our kids go to the same schools – and we all want safer roads, but speed is a major contributor to the death toll on our roads.”
He said collisions at more than 45km/h give cyclists a less than 50 per cent chance of survival and even if a cyclist is hit at a slower speed, they face suffering severe injuries.
“Always look out for cyclists on the road,” Vogel said.
“There is this belief that cyclists have less right to the road and should keep out of a motorist’s way. In fact, both have equal rights on the road. We need mutual respect and tolerance among all road users,” said Vogel.
“Remember that when you need to turn or change lanes, there could be a cyclist next to you. Make an extra effort to double check your blindspot and mirrors, before you turn or change lanes. Motorists also need to be aware of cyclists approaching from the front, when intending to cross the path of oncoming traffic.
Drivers should not underestimate the speed of a cyclist,” Vogel explained. “ If we all obeyed the rules and showed a bit of courtesy to other road users, we’d realise that our journey is not more important than the journey of any other person. We’d reduce speed, stop overtaking on white lines and skipping red lights. Motorists hold the key to making roads safer for everyone.”
He said some of the most important things cyclists should do in order to stay safe on the road include:
– Make sure you are visible.
When you are out cycling, it is safest to assume that the drivers around you won’t be able to see you. Be visible by wearing bright clothing with reflective strips, attach a white light to the handlebars and a red flashing light to the back of your bike.
Try to ride in a group. The more of you there are, the more visible you will be.
– Wear a helmet
It’s essential to ride with a good quality helmet; this is without a doubt the most important
safety precaution you can take. Aside from it being against the law in South Africa to cycle without a helmet, a head injury can have permanent side-effects. Get a new helmet if yours is materially damaged in any way. Another important safety rule is not to listen to music while you ride; if you can’t hear the cars around you, you can’t avoid potential accidents.
– Obey road rules like any other road user
As a cyclist, you’re expected to follow the same rules of the road as anyone else. Although you have the advantage of being able to cycle in the yellow line or in bike lanes, you still have to stop at stop streets and red lights, give way when you are required to, and be considerate towards your fellow road-users, including drivers and pedestrians.
– Be considerate at all times
Cyclists know that not all drivers are considerate of cyclists, but drivers are still in a position of power compared to a cyclist. Don’t hold on to cars to hitch a lift or keep your balance, and avoid hurling abuse or swearing at motorists for the same reason that road rage is a bad strategy when you’re in your car: things can escalate quickly. Keep yourself safe by keeping your cool.
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