The number of cyclists on our roads, especially in large cities, has increased over the years. When you’re sharing the road with cyclists, it’s important for the safety of everyone to drive with extra caution. Here’s what every driver needs to know when sharing the road with cyclists:
Pay attention to the bike lane. Just as bikers should respect car lanes, drivers should respect bike lanes. That means not to park in the bike lane or swerve over into the bike lanes. When you disregard bike lanes, it increases the chances of the biker being forced into car lanes, and ultimately increases the chance of a collision.
Be careful opening your car door. If you’re exiting your vehicle from the driver’s side, be sure to look behind you for any cyclists before you open the door. Put down your phone and look before you exit your vehicle.
Watch your turns. When making a turn, the cyclist has the right of way. So take the time to look for a cyclist before you turn. It could mean the difference between a collision and reaching your destination safely.
Not all roads have bike lanes. While it would be safer and more efficient if all roads were designed with a bike lanes, that’s simply not that case. So when you’re driving on a road without a bike lane, pay extra attention to your surroundings. If you have to slow down or let a cyclist pass you, do it.
Have patience. Sharing the road with cyclists isn’t always easy, but it is important to have patience. While you may be in a hurry to reach your destination, it’s not worth causing a collision, injuring a cyclists, a pedestrian, yourself or your passengers.
With more bikes on our roads today, it’s crucial to take the time to understand some basic principles about sharing the road with cyclists. Drive with extra caution, be patient, and be aware of your surroundings. In doing so, you’ll ensure safer roads for everyone.