Advanced Stop Signs create a mixture of responses from cyclists. On the one hand they can be useful for
- giving a better position at traffic lights.
- They can give better visibility
- Remind motorists cyclists have right to be on road and encourages them to be more tolerant of cyclists (in theory anyway!)
- Provide a nicer environment as you aren’t stuck behind exhaust fumes.
The main drawback to advanced stop lines is that it can be difficult to get there in the first place – especially if there is no cycle lane on the inside. This can encourage the risk of cycling through a drivers blind spot.
However, if I can I will cycle to the advanced stop sign assuming:
- It is safe to do it. i.e. traffic not moving.
- No car has parked in it.
taxi’s have their own rules.
A junction with an advanced stop sign enables cyclists to get in front of bus.
Sometimes it’s not worth the effort to get to an advanced stop sign.
Tips for Advanced Stop Signs for Cyclists.
- If traffic is stationary, it is good to move ahead of queue of stationary traffic and give you more space.
- The success of advanced stop signs depends on how much space and complementary cycle path.
- Just because it is there doesn’t mean you have to use it. Sometimes it is safer and less hassle to just queue behind cars.
- Sometimes it can be better to go on outside of traffic rather than squeeze through on inside.
- Cycling on inside of lorries buses means you will pass through their blind spot; this is potentially dangerous so you have to be vigilant to see if they are moving or not.
The Highway code states:
61
Cycle Routes and Other Facilities. Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.
62
Sometimes it is just difficult to squeeze through into advanced stop area.
Successful Advanced Stop Lines
- Have cycle lane to provide access
- Are painted to give clearer indication to motorists not to drive into it.
- A second light for cyclists to give a few extra seconds to clear the junction before cars are given green light.
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