Hi
Folks…

An
increasing number of major cities are looking for ways to promote cycling, one
of the ways is by adding bicycle lanes and paths in congested business
districts as well as residential areas. The hope is that cycling will continue
to become a bigger part of the transportation system, expanding well beyond its
role as a recreational pastime and sport.

But
the relationship between cyclists and motorists can, as we all know, become
strained.

Here
are some safety tips from a Cycling Coalition in the States that drivers may
want to share with other road users in order to promote a safer coexistence.

 
  Drive cautiously

Ø  Reduce speed when encountering
cyclists.

Ø  In inclement weather, give cyclists
extra trailing and passing room.

Ø  Recognize situations that may be
potentially dangerous to cyclists and give them space.

Yield to
cyclists

Ø  Cyclists should be considered
vehicles and should be given the appropriate right of way.

Ø  Cyclists may take the entire lane
when hazards, road width or traffic speed dictate.

Ø  Motorists should allow extra time
for cyclists to traverse intersections.

Be considerate

Ø  Scan for cyclists in traffic and at
intersections.

Ø  Do not blow your hooter in close
proximity to cyclists.

Ø  Look for cyclists when opening
doors.

Pass with care

Ø  Leave at least one and a half meters
space between your car and a cyclist when passing.

Ø  Wait until road and traffic
conditions allow you to safely pass.

Ø  Check over your shoulder after
passing a cyclist before moving back to your normal position.

Watch for
children and keep in mind:

Ø  Children on bicycles are often
unpredictable – expect the unexpected and slow down.

Ø  Most children don’t have adequate
knowledge of traffic laws.

Ø  Children are harder to see because
they are typically smaller than adults.

While the above may not sound like “rocket science” they are
easily overlooked when dealing with all the other challenges motorists have to
handle.

Till
next time – Think how you would want to be treated if you were a cyclist.

Eugene
Herbert