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Cycling safety is very important. Cycling is not necessarily dangerous but there are other vehicles out there that could be your waterloo! Careless motorists cause 95% of cycling accidents! So if you are out for a ride on your bike do not ignore the traffic rules. They are made to ensure your safety!
Right turns: When turning right, look behind early. If the road is empty then move out into the centre of the road a little left of the white line. If traffic is approaching, eyeball the driver. Keep your eye on the driver and then start to move out. When making the turn, go into the left hand lane. Don’t cut the corner. Place yourself in the middle of the road, left of the white line, at a t-junction
Left Turns: Don’t wait at a left turn. Signal the traffic right behind you and clearly. That way the traffic won’t squeeze you into the gutter. If you're going straight take care that you don’t crash cars attempting to turn left by overtaking you. Be also aware of cars coming out of the left. Signal clearly and early.
Overtaking: While overtaking, signal early, clearly and gradually come out. If you leave it to the last moment then, you may crash into a car that’s overtaking you at the same time. Don’t weave in and out of parked cars. Wait and make sure everyone’s seen you.
Changing Lanes: Treat every lane as a right turn. Your place is the same as always, a yard or so from the left. Go from that position to the other lane by the most direct route. Keep an eye out for the traffic to avoid running into any vehicle.
Roundabout: If you’re moving left, signal and stay left. Otherwise, head for the middle. When you're passing the exit before yours signal and come about the roundabout carefully. It may be exposing but at least they can see you. If you feel this is unsafe, dismount and walk your bike around the footpath
Visibility: Visibility is very important. Even during daylight hours, it is crucial. Some cycling jerseys are garish but you can’t miss them. That’s the point. Reflectives are important too. Pedal reflectors and ankle bands are excellent and a reflective vest is a must have.
Lights: Lights now show where you are to the rest of the traffic, and that’s the important part. Systems like Nightsun or BLT light up the area but are generally expensive. On budget, you're probably better off with a bottle dynamo like AXA strapped to a front lamp. LED lamps are the best at the back.
Helmets: Helmet wearing is generally based on the person. Some people love it, some hate it. Its true that you’d probably hurt your head falling down the head than into a car. But remember, its your head. If you decide to use a helmet, get one with a recognized safety standard.
Take care. While biking is fun, your life
is precious!
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