Cyclists versus drivers. Let's remember the rules
In the spring, many change to a bicycle. Cyclists are full participants in the road and it is often difficult for motorists to accept this fact.
Most of the accidents involving cyclists are caused by the fault of the drivers of other vehicles. The main causes of accidents in which a cyclist is injured are: failure to give right of way, improper overtaking, improper cornering, inappropriate speed and failure to maintain a safe distance.
– Both drivers and cyclists should remember to be kind and respect each other. Too often, negative emotions take over,” says Zbigniew Veseli, director of the Renault driving school. – It is also necessary to know the rules and follow them, even when it is not convenient.
See also: Cyclists and traffic rules, or who and when has priority
The example of countries with a high culture towards cyclists does not eliminate the problem. Research shows that in the Netherlands the most common cause of accidents involving cyclists were also car drivers, accounting for 58 per cent. Events. The largest number of accidents involving both parties occurred at urban intersections - 67%. (data from the Dutch Institute for Road Safety Research SWOV).
The increased risk of road traffic accidents in the spring and summer means that less protected road users should be given more attention. One of the biggest doubts still remains the question of priority when the car swerves to the side of the road. If the cycle path runs along a transverse road, the driver of the car must give way to the cyclist when turning. Cyclists, on the other hand, should be aware that this order only applies to roads with marked bike crossings. Otherwise, they must stop, get off the bike and guide it through the lanes.
“The driver is obliged to give way to pedestrians at the crossing, and the cyclist does not have the right to enter them,” Renault driving school coaches remind. Turning drivers must also give way to a cyclist riding on the curb road to their right.
