Tips for Cycling Safety

1. Be seen

The majority of cyclists are poorly dressed, making them difficult to see, especially at twilight. Don’t forget it is often harder for motorists to spot cyclists because they often appear in their blind spot. Therefore, it is highly advisable to wear reflective clothes, even during the day.

2. Good Lights.

Using lights at night should be seen as essential rather than optional. However, it is worth mentioning that some lights are much better than others. Some very small led lights are actually quite hard to pick out. Consider having two sets of lights, or at least one very good set. Another important factor is the positioning of lights. I often see cyclists with lights attached to their bike, but, there coat more or less covers the back light. They are probably not even aware that their light is no good. Attaching lights to your clothes, doesn’t actually meet the legal requirement. Lights should be attached to your bike. There is a good reason for this sometimes, when lights are attached to your clothes they end up pointing in strange directions making it difficult to see.

3. Be aware of all traffic rules.

Do you know that at roundabouts you have to give way to traffic already on the roundabout. I have seen both motorists and cyclists seemingly unaware of this.

4. Be aware of drivers blind spots.

It is tempting to ride up on the inside of the traffic. However if you ride on the inside of the truck you will probably be invisible to the driver. If he makes a left turn he may ride over you without ever seeing you.

5. Be patient.

Sometimes cyclists (and of course motorists) create dangerous situations because they have no patience. Be prepared to wait at traffic lights, don’t feel you have to take all risks to get their as soon as possible.

6. Wear a Helmet.

I put this low down on the list, because I think the most important safety rules is prevention. If you get run over by a truck, a polystyrene helmet isn’t going to give you much protection. Nevertheless, helmets can be helpful for reducing the impact of some head injuries. But, if you do wear a helmet, I would stress that that you should feel you are now completely protected. You should still cycle with caution - in most accidents a helmet is not going to help that much. See: Reasons to wear a helmet

7. Expect drivers to do stupid things.

When cycling you always need to be thinking ahead and preparing for motorists to do the wrong thing. For example, a motorist may take a left turn without checking for cyclists coming on the inside or outside. be prepared - think ahead.