How To Keep Safe Cycling On Our Roads…

With the summer months ahead, and hopefully finer days!, expect more bikes to hit the roads. Biking is an economical  means of transport and the exercise is beneficial for our health and well-being. To ensure cycling on the road is a “stress-free” experience, we encourage you to read the following tips.  Source: Tips found on Auckland City Council’s website.

Motorists Tips

Cyclists are more vulnerable on the road as they are less visible and less well protected than other road users. For these reasons, be alert for cyclists on the road and drive carefully when near them.

• Remember, don’t drive too close to cyclists. Allow them plenty of room.
• Wait for a clear space before passing a cyclist on a narrow road.
• Always check carefully for cyclists before turning at, or moving through, an intersection.
• Only drive across cycle lanes when entering or leaving side roads, driveways or parking spaces.
• If you are crossing a cycle lane, give way to cyclists before you cross.
• Take extra care around young cyclists.
• Always check carefully for cyclists before you open your door.
• Always check the road carefully for cyclists before reversing or moving out of a driveway or parking space.

Cyclists Tips

As a cyclist, it is important that you follow the road rules and guidelines, increasing your safety when cycling on the road.

• Cyclists must wear an approved safety helmet. Always fasten it securely, by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Be seen by wearing brightly coloured or reflective clothing, backpack cover and bike lights.
• Don’t ride your bicycle on a footpath unless you are delivering newspapers, mail or leaflets, or where there are signs indicating it is a shared pedestrian and cycle path.
• At intersections, you must either follow the rules for motor vehicles, or get off your bicycle and walk across.
• You can only ride alongside another cyclist or moped. You must not ride alongside a car, truck or other motor vehicle.
• Always ride in single file if passing another vehicle.
• Your bicycle must not be towed by another vehicle.
• Your bicycle can only tow a trailer (one designed to be towed by a bicycle) and must not be fitted with a sidecar.
• You must not carry a pillion passenger on your bicycle unless you have a pillion seat and footrest. If you are carrying a child, the pillion seat must protect the child’s legs from the wheels.
• You must not leave a bicycle blocking a footpath.
• Where there is an adequate cycle path or cycle lane, cyclists should use it.
• You must ride with lights on when it is dark (from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise).
• You must keep your bicycle in good working condition.

Share these tips with your friends and family to help keep our roads greener and safer!