Cycle safety advice this winter
30/11/2009 12:00:00
The onset of the winter months can cause havoc on our roads. The dark months bring wind, rain and leaves that can prove hazardous to all road users. It is important that during this time both cyclists and drivers avoid the risk of collisions by following the rules of the road.
If you are a cyclist:
Be visible to other road users and pedestrians. Keep yourself in full view of other road users by steering well clear of the kerb and parked vehicles. Wear bright or fluorescent clothing at all times, especially in poor light, and reflective clothing at night. Always use lights after dark, in the rain or if the weather is overcast.
Don't ride in the gutter. Ride at least one metre from the kerb to miss drain covers and debris on the side of the road and don't feel you have to hug the kerb if a car behind you gets impatient.
Protect yourself. Wearing a helmet may reduce the risk of head injury if you are involved in a crash.
Show drivers what you plan to do in plenty of time. Always look and signal before you start, stop or turn. Make eye contact with drivers and let them know you’ve seen them.
Ride decisively. Don't weave between lanes or change direction suddenly.
Use cycle facilities. Consider using cycle lanes and paths, advanced stop areas for cycles at traffic lights etc. if you feel they can make your journey safer.
The Drive SMART campaign, launched in September by Surrey County Council and Surrey Police, encourages drivers to be more considerate and change driving behaviours that negatively affect the lives of other road users or local residents. These include tailgating, bad or inconsiderate parking, using a handheld mobile phone at the wheel, speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt and generally thoughtless or reckless driving, all of which could make the roads very dangerous for cyclists.
Be a responsible driver:
Give cyclists plenty of room. They may need to move out suddenly, especially in windy weather and on bad road surfaces.
Give cyclists as much room as you would give a car when overtaking them.
Watch for cyclists on the inside when you turn left. Large goods vehicles, buses and coaches need to be especially careful. Check your secondary safety mirror carefully before you turn.
Look behind you for cyclists before opening your door.
Don't expect cyclists to ride too close to the kerb. A cyclist in the middle of the road may be turning right. They also need to avoid drains and potholes.
Be aware when a cyclist turns right that you may have to wait behind them – just as you would for a car. Don’t squeeze past too closely or get impatient.
Make an extra check for cyclists at junctions and roundabouts, whether you're joining or passing the junction.
Dip your headlights if a cyclist is coming the other way so you don't dazzle them.
Head of Surrey Police Roads Policing Unit, Chief Inspector Dave Mason, said: “Cycling should be fun but it should also be safe. A few safety rules can help cyclists stay out of trouble on the roads but they should also be aware of the Highway Code and how it relates to them and perhaps consider investing in cycle training. But drivers need to also be aware of other road users and drive considerately.”
Anyone interested in cycle training can find information on the ‘Bikeability’ scheme on the Surrey County Council website at www.surreycc.gov.uk
Call 0845 125 2222 for all non-emergency policing matters.
Call 999 if you have a genuine emergency requiring the attendance of the police (e.g. a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger).
Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you have information about crime and don't want to leave your name.