Cycling is a popular, eco-friendly mode of transportation that promotes a healthy lifestyle. However, cyclists are vulnerable on the road.
Therefore, drivers need to respect and accommodate cyclists on the road to ensure everyone’s safety.
Give cyclists ample space
In 2022, the U.S. experienced 42,795 motor vehicle accident deaths, and one contributing factor was not providing adequate space between vehicles. This is even more dangerous when you drive with cyclists on the road.
Therefore, allow at least three feet of clearance between your vehicle and the cyclist because they may swerve around impediments on the road. You do not want to accidentally clip them with your side mirror or force them off the road.
Be mindful of blind spots
Cyclists can easily disappear into blind spots, especially for larger vehicles like trucks and buses. Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or making a turn. Take a moment to ensure the coast is clear.
Avoid distracted driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents involving cyclists. Distractions can take your focus off the road and lead to disastrous consequences. A split-second distraction could result in a collision with a cyclist.
Signal your turns
Communicate your intentions to safely share the road with cyclists. Always use your turn signals well in advance to alert cyclists and other drivers of your next move. This gives cyclists time to react and adjust their position accordingly.
Respect bike lanes
Bike lanes provide cyclists with a safe space to ride away from traffic. Blocking bike lanes forces cyclists to merge into traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Always yield to cyclists when crossing bike lanes.
Sharing the road with cyclists requires patience and understanding. Cyclists may not always travel at the same speed as motor vehicles, so adopt courteous driving behavior.