Safety measures for cycling in major cities

It absolutely goes without saying that you have to stay safe when you are out on the road. If you feel as though there are things that you could be doing to try and be safer when in the city, then this is the guide for you.

Know what to do if you are involved in an accident

It’s a good idea to begin with the worst case scenario. Preparing for the thing you’re trying to avoid is helpful.

Number one is, once you’ve been hit, if you can move, you should get out of harm’s way and ensure that no one else is in a dangerous position. After this, it’s about gathering details. To help with claims after cycle accidents, it’s important to get the contact information of witnesses and attending police officers, as well as the other person. It’s easy to do on your phone, as long as it’s not broken after the collision. Photograph the damage too.

Assume that people will open their car doors

Cyclists often get hit with doors. It’s shockingly common, but the only way for you to try and prevent this would be for you to try and keep a good distance between yourself and the cars that are parked up. You also need to try and watch for any movement in a parked car, as this indicates that someone is inside and they are about to get out.

Don’t box yourself in

You have to be alert whenever you are weaving between traffic. Make sure that you never get boxed in if you can. You also need to make sure that you always have a clear exit. One good example of this would be if you are going towards a red light. Don’t ride between rows of stationary or even slow-moving traffic if you can. You have to make sure that you don’t get trapped as people won’t often see you if you are riding next to them when the light does turn green. The stopping distance of a road user will be better than yours as well, so make sure that you keep a sensible distance from the vehicle that is ahead of you.

Look at the eyes

It’s so important that you do not assume that the driver has spotted you. One of the best ways for you to make sure that you are on the right track is to never assume that the driver has spotted you. Make eye contact and failing this, keep an eye on the front wheels. This will give you plenty of notice if there is ever a dangerous situation that you may end up being wrapped up in.

Boss your Lane

You also have to make sure that you boss your lane if this is required. If there’s absolutely no room for cars to pass then don’t let them. You have to make sure that you are positioned in such a way that cars find it easy to overtake. If you know that there is no room for cars to overtake then make sure that you make the effort to stop them.