Basic Cycling Safety Tips

Sometimes it can seem like cycling takes enough effort as it is, with setting aside time and plotting a route, but there's other stuff that is fundamental to every time you go out on a bike. It can be easy to get complacent if you live in a less-busier area, but wherever you set out from it's important to be aware of road safely.

The main thing is to watch out for cars. People might joke about motorist's intentions towards cyclists, but the actual dangers of busy traffic are very real. Make sure you leave room between yourself and traffic, and make sure you show you intent before committing to a manoeuvre. Learn to get into a routine of signalling even if there isn't any apparent traffic - it's better if it's engrained as a reflex. Also be careful not to stretch your arm out too far when signalling if there's traffic coming towards you.

There's also some essential safety equipment to consider. Wearing a helmet shouldn't be an option - always wear head protection and make sure that you're not leaving yourself vulnerable for no reason. If you're wearing a helmet when you're involved in a collision your chances of getting away with it are greatly improved.

You have to make sure that you can be seen clearly. Having the right lights is something that's an obvious legal obligation if you're cycling at night, but they're there for you too. For a motorist, it's near impossible to pick out an oncoming cyclist at night it they're not illuminated. If you want to make extra sure, it's a good idea to wear reflective gear and possibly helmet lights too.

All of this isn't just about your safety. For other road users to feel secure you have to make sure you take responsibility with your cycling, and are constantly aware too. Always perform a 'life-saver look' before you turn into a junction, and don't ride a bike that you think might be unsafe. It also pays to familiarise yourself with a new bike - you wouldn't be the first road bike user to forget how to get his or her feet out of stirrups.

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