If you ask drivers, many of them would probably agree that cyclists shouldn’t be in the roadway. After all, they are aggressive, cutting drivers off and weaving in and out of traffic. I’m just kidding. Most cyclists are extremely careful when they are riding alongside traffic. They usually obey all of the traffic rules, and are hardly a nuisance to other drivers.

Bicycle Rules and Safety That Everyone Should Know

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),

The first automobile crash in the United States occurred in New York City in 1896, when a motor vehicle collided with a pedalcycle rider. More than 51,000 pedalcyclists have died in traffic crashes in the United States since 1932-the first year win which estimates of pedalcyclist fatalities were recorded…In 2006, 773 pedalcyclists were killed and an additional 44,000 were injured in traffic crashes. Pedalcyclist deaths accounted for 2 percent of all traffic fatalities, and pedalcyclists made up 2 percent of all the people injured in traffic crashes during the year.

So, how can future accidents be prevented between drivers and cyclists? The NHTSA recommends several things:

1. Wear a Helmet: All cyclists should wear properly fitted bicycle helmets every time they ride- no matter what the age. Wearing a helmet is the best way to prevent head injuries which result from a bicycle crash.
2. Obey Traffic Rules: Cyclists are considered vehicle operators. Therefore, they are required to obey the same rules of the road as any other driver. This includes things such as obeying traffic signs, signals and lane markings. If you are cycling in the street, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
3. Share the Road: Drivers must share the road with bicyclists. Just because someone isn’t in a vehicle, doesn’t mean that you have the right to rule the road. Be courteous, allowing at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist on the road (this may mean changing lanes or slowing down). Also, be sure that you look for cyclists (as well as other pedestrians such as runners) before opening your car door or before pulling out of a parking space. Drivers must yield to cyclists at intersections as directed by signs and signals. If a cyclist is in the roadway, be especially watchful if they prepare to turn.
4. Wear Proper Clothing: Cyclists should always look for ways to increase their visibility to drivers by being more cognizant of what they’re wearing. For example, wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing during times of poor visibility (ie. dawn, dusk, inclement weather) will dramatically improve visibility to other drivers. At night, cyclists should attach a front light to their bikes and/or a red reflector or flashing rear light. if you don’t have fluorescent clothing, you can still use retro-reflective tape to put on whatever clothing you do have while riding.
5. Know the Rules: Check with the police in the town or city that you live in as there may be more specific rules for cyclists (ie. riding two abreast in a lane). All of this will make both cyclists and drivers safer and more aware of each other.

For more information about auto transport and vehicle shipping, contact National Transport today!

Tags: Auto Transportation //