Top Tips For Cyclists Staying Safe On The Road
And who to contact if the tips don't work
There are many reasons why you may want to consider cycling more rather than having to rely on public transport or even drive. When you cycle, you can help to do your bit for the environment by aiding the reduction of emissions and pollution. In addition, cycling is a great way to keep fit and healthy, as it provides an excellent form of exercise, whilst also getting you from A to B.
On top of this, cycling is a very cheap mode of transportation, as there are no petrol and other related costs involved. However, one thing that can put people off cycling everywhere is the dangers that they face on the road. Being a cyclist amid droves of cars and lorries can feel like being a little fish swimming among the sharks, and in order to avoid getting caught, you need to exercise caution.
Five tips to aid safety on the road for cyclists
Every year, many cyclists are injured as a result of road accidents that were not their fault. If this does happen to you, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries by getting help from specialist personal injury lawyers. However, by taking steps to stay safe, you may be able to avoid accidents altogether.
Some of the tips that can help to keep you safe on the road as a cyclist include:
- Make sure you are visible: Roads are so busy these days that many drivers fail to even spot cyclists, particularly if it is starting to get dark. You need to make sure that you are visible to drivers at all times, which means taking steps such as wearing a high visibility jacket or stripes and having lights that are in good working order.
- Wear a helmet: One of the biggest risks when it comes to cycling is the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident. While wearing a helmet may not necessarily cut the risk of you having an accident, it will cut the risk of you sustaining a serious head injury. So, make sure you invest in a quality helmet that’s a good fit.
- Keep your distance from the kerb: When faced with the amount of traffic you see on the roads these days, it is not surprising that many cyclists are tempted to stay as close to the kerb as possible. However, this could be very dangerous; simply clipping the kerb could result in a serious accident and injury. Always make sure you keep a safe distance from the kerb when on your bike.
- Be vigilant: As a cyclist, you should never assume that drivers have seen you, particularly if you are about to make a manoeuvre. Always double check and if you can make eye contact with the driver, then do so. This will give you a better idea as to whether they have seen you before you make what could end up being a very risky move.
- Be sensible: One thing that many people love about being on their bikes is the ability to avoid long traffic queues. However, do not become complacent and assume that you are fine to weave in and out of traffic without any indication to drivers, as this could result in a serious accident or injury. Make sure you make your intentions clear to drivers when you are planning a manoeuvre.
These tips can help to ensure that you enjoy all of the benefits of cycling without putting yourself at risk.
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January 10, 2014
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