Cycling in traffic can be quite challenging. Here are some recommended tips to stay safe with your bicycle and avoid accidents.
Keep away from Curb
You need to stay away from the pavement as this is the way you can stay visible to other drivers. Also, when another car overtakes you, you will definitely feel comfortable as you will have enough space.
Allow the Car Behind You
If you find that the car just behind you is too close, just let it go. You can pull over to the pavement, the side road or bus station. This is a good way to be safe with your city bicycle.
Bright Coloured Clothes Help
You might not love colourful clothes but to stay safe in traffic, this can be a good option. With bright coloured clothes, you can be spotted quite easily.
Cycle Paths Help
You need to check the map before you start your journey. Using cycle paths can help in avoiding traffic and this is especially when you have children with you.
Safety from Car Doors
This is a real nightmare for cyclists. Suppose you are riding past a row of cars and suddenly a door opens, and you have an unavoidable collision. The most difficult part is that avoiding this is almost impossible. Keep a watch on all the parked cars and place your fingers on braking levers.
Know the Rules
It is extremely important to be aware of all the road rules. If there is any hesitation, you might be involved in some kind of accident and be at fault.
Understand the Driver
Though you might not like it, this is a fact that a bicycle can be an obstruction for others. At this point, you need to think about the other drivers on road. Thus, it is important to understand the needs of other drives. Also, in the same way, other drivers will be a lot more tolerant towards you and you will be counted as a friendly cyclist.
Anticipate
No, you do not have to read anyone’s mind. When on road, you can respond to any situation but anticipating does help. Observation skills and empathy is important. Anticipating facts like if the red vehicle right in front of you is slowing down and then what you should do ideally which can help.
Consider the Lighting
You need to keep in mind that days are shorter in some months of the year. If you don’t have this in mind, you might not be able to reach home before dusk. Thus, you should have a taillight always attached to the post. When in heavy traffic, the rear and front lights are quite helpful.
Avoid Conflict
At times, it is really difficult to stay away from a conflict. In case of a man, this is really difficult and easing the temper can be quite painful. However, if you wish to stay safe and away from the hospital, it is recommended to stay away from conflicts when in the road.
