Isaias Lijauco
Cyclists (including those driving pedicabs for a living) are among the people vulnerable to new or used car users on the road. Thus, it’s not surprising that they share the same privileges and responsibilities on the road as drivers. Moreover, bicycles and other two-wheeled vehicles are narrower, making them more likely to be positioned in your blind spot. So best scan the area and look out for them as much as possible while you’re driving.
Below are other things you need to keep in mind.
- Check your side view mirror and perform head checks before you open your door to get off your vehicle, move off from a sidewalk, and make a right turn (cyclists are usually positioned on the right lane).
- Be very careful when you’re at intersections. Watch out for cyclists who are making turns, who plan to make a left turn if you are headed straight, who are crossing the road, and who are moving fast along a through street.
- Cyclists may be harder to see at night, especially those not wearing reflective gear. Be observant of those coming in from side streets, dark corners, or dark alleys.
- It is also important to be mindful of cyclists when overtaking. Check to see if there are no oncoming cyclists ahead of the vehicle you are overtaking.
- Treat cyclists as you would any other vehicle. Like anyone on the road, they expect you to follow the rules of the road as well.
- Even if you are driving on the left lane, be aware that not all cyclists always stay in the right lane. There are times when they have to position themselves on the left lane to make a left turn.
- Observe safe distances from cyclists ahead of you. They need space to make adjustments.
- Allow enough distance on the side, between your vehicle, and cyclists, especially when you are attempting to overtake them.
- Be observant of hand signals that cyclists use to gesture their intentions to make a turn.
- Make eye contact with cyclists to allow them to anticipate your next move.
- Avoid surprising cyclists by honking your horn unnecessarily.
- Be aware of bike lanes. They are designated for cyclists, and they are usually found on the rightmost lane of streets.
Final Thoughts
When driving your new or pre-owned car, you share the streets and thoroughfares with other road users, including cyclists. Thus, knowing how to share the space on the road is a must if you want to maintain yours and their safety.