Safe Cycling

A large number of accidents involving cyclists are due to heavy goods vehicles. This is usually down to the driver being unable to see cyclists due to blind spots in his mirrors. If the driver cannot see you, you are in danger, especially if he is turning left. The advice of the defensive cyclist is to stay well clear of heavy goods vehicles.




Do not stop next to one at the lights, either hold back behind it and allow it to go when the lights change. Dismount and use the path to get past the lorry,or go through the lights if it is safe to do so. The worst thing you can do is sit next to the driver's cab. He cannot see you, you are invisible to him. You need to devise a strategy for dealing with heavy goods vehicles and apply it all the time.



Forget the law. Following the laws of the road rigidly can put you at risk. Remember the laws of the road were created for cars not bikes. You need to use your own common sense when you are close to a heavy goods vehicle, and if this means breaking the law by running a red light then I would do it. If it guarantees my safety. If you feel uncomfortable next to a heavy goods vehicle, and all cyclists should certainly be wary around them, dismount and get onto the path until it has gone.



If you are approaching a stationary heavy goods vehicle at the traffic lights stop behind him. Under no circumstances ride at the side of him. The danger is when the lights change you will both set off together, then suddenly the heavy goods vehicle will turn left crushing you.



You need to be fully alert when cycling near these vehicles. You also need to apply common logic rather than blindly obeying laws that could put you in danger. If you are travelling in one of those inadequate cycling lanes here in England. Which is just a line drawn at the side of the road. Then undertaking buses or lorries, is putting you at great risk. You will hit their blind spots and could easily be knocked off. Never undertake a bus or lorry.



It may be more intimidating, but it can be safer to leave the bike lane and overtake the bus or lorry from the right. (Uk roads) Drivers expect to be overtaken from this side and are constantly checking their mirrors. Safe cycling is a matter of common sense and simple logic. Ignore laws if they are putting you in danger, stay alert in heavy traffic, use your eyes and ears and listen to your instinct. If you feel unsafe in a situation get off the bike and walk until you have passed the source of the problem.