Spring on a bike - how to ride safely?

Cycling on Polish roads is not safe. Cyclists are often ignored, not considered full-fledged road users. The driver is known to not keep a safe distance from the cyclist or force the road. The few bike paths are often poorly built. Pits, high curbs, poor lighting or lack of road markings are the most common defects. So, how to drive safely on Polish roads during the season?

In 2015, 300 cyclists were killed. What to do to prevent this?

To consider yourself a safe cyclist, there are a few rules you must follow.

1. Good visibility

Reflective details on the bike and…your own wardrobe are important pieces of equipment. Good clothes, shoes, helmets and cycling backpacks have reflective elements that glow in the dark, which is very important but unfortunately still underestimated.

Efficient lighting is the key to safer driving. LED front and rear lights take up very little space, are easy to transport and are very useful. You will not only be seen by other road users, but you will also see obstacles in your path.

2. Concentration is the key to security.

When cycling, focus. You can never predict the behavior of other road users: pedestrians or drivers. Be especially careful on the right side, there may be parked cars from which the driver can exit at any time, open the door and cause an accident. Also watch the departure from the hotel or from the parking lots.

3. Protect your head

It is not necessary for a cyclist to have a helmet, but it is worth remembering that the forewarned is always insured. Cyclists are not the only road users. During a fall, with the exception of the knees and elbows, the head is most vulnerable to injury. Although, of course, a helmet will not protect our entire head (unless it is a FullFace helmet that also protects the jaw), and not in all cases. But it will definitely reduce the risk of hitting your head on the curb.

4. Keep your eyes on your head.

If we have a mirror installed, it is always worth checking if there is a car behind us or if it is preparing to change direction.

5. Keep your distance not only from the car.

If we are driving down the street, remember that we keep to the right side of the road. However, in order to stay safe, remember to keep your distance from the edge of the road. There are often holes near the curb itself. If you try to avoid them, you could push someone directly under the wheels.

What should a cyclist not do?

• Increase your speed and try to overtake trucks at intersections or bends. Riders may not notice the cyclist
• Avoid frequent deviations to one side or the other. Try to walk in a straight line and use bike paths,
• Avoid overspeeding when driving behind the vehicle. At the moment of sudden braking, it is easy to collide,
• Avoid placing weights on your bike that could affect your balance and center of gravity.

Driving safely, whether on a busy street or off to the side, requires the development of technical skills. Sensitive braking, smooth gear changes, or correct cornering take practice.

Of course, having mastered the theoretical material, it is best to get on the bike yourself in order to improve yourself, not forgetting to always wear a helmet on your head.

Also, remember that no amount of advice will help unless you use common sense, so be careful when cycling!

If you ride a bike, it's a good idea to put the above advice into practice. When preparing for the season, remember that health is the most important thing. If you want to be seen, go to avtotachki.com and arm yourself with decent lamps. Preferably solid LED lights that provide long lasting illumination and excellent visibility.