**Navigating Traffic Safely on Your Bicycle**
There’s nothing quite like the freedom you feel when you’re biking down a quiet road, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. But you can’t ignore that a car might come zooming by at any moment.
Bikes and cars have to share the road, for better or worse. Cycling on busy roads can be risky, especially if you don’t know how to stay safe. This guide will help you learn how to avoid cars while cycling so you can enjoy your ride safely.
When planning your ride, you often have multiple routes to choose from. A simple way to avoid cars is to steer clear of heavy traffic areas like main roads. Opt for quiet side streets or paths with fewer cars to dodge. This lets you enjoy the ride without the stress of heavy traffic.
Rush hour, typically around 8 am and 5 pm, is particularly dangerous. Keep an eye on the time and try to avoid cycling during these peak hours. More cars on the road means a higher risk, so plan your route accordingly.
Of course, avoiding rush hour isn’t always possible, especially if you’re commuting or running errands. In these cases, you need to be extra cautious and take extra measures to ensure your safety. Always seek out the safest route, even if it means a longer ride. Better to spend a bit more time traveling safely than taking risks.
Roads with wide shoulders, at least six feet, are the safest for cyclists as they offer more space between you and passing traffic. Even wider shoulders are better, providing more room to maneuver around obstacles like potholes. However, remain cautious as cars might still pass too closely.
Consider finding routes with wide bike lanes. Bike lanes are dedicated paths for cyclists, typically separated from the main road by a dotted line or barrier, offering extra protection from traffic. Not all bike lanes are equally safe, so choose those that make you feel comfortable. Never solely rely on cars to keep their distance; always stay aware of your surroundings.
A common cause of accidents is drivers turning in front of cyclists, especially if they don’t see you. Be alert to vehicles when approaching turns. Slow down and use your judgment to decide if it’s safe to proceed. Make yourself more noticeable by wearing bright clothes and try to make eye contact with drivers. If they don’t see you, either proceed very slowly or wait until it’s safe.
Watch out for cars pulling out of driveways, as drivers may not see you. Maintain a safe distance from these cars. When in doubt, play it safe rather than assuming the driver will be careful.
During risky times like heavy rush hour or dusk when visibility is poor, consider moving your workout indoors. It’s always okay to prioritize safety and save outdoor rides for safer times. Cyclists often use rollers or bike trainers to stay in shape indoors. Group fitness options like spin classes or Peloton workouts are great alternatives for staying safe off the roads.
Finding trails instead of riding on the road is another effective way to avoid cars. Trails are mostly used by pedestrians, runners, and other cyclists, meaning less traffic to worry about, if any. Be cautious of other trail users and yield when necessary. Trails can also offer scenic, enjoyable rides, often located in parks or nature reserves, revealing beautiful scenery you wouldn’t see on the road.
Exploring trails can lead you to parts of your city or town you’d never see otherwise, and you might discover new favorite routes. For those who don’t mind riding a gravel bike, many trails have gravel or limestone surfaces, adding more routes to explore. Gravel bikes are popular for their versatility.
As a cyclist, you’re at a disadvantage because cars are bigger and faster. Make sure drivers see you clearly by wearing bright and reflective clothing. Reflective gear like vests, armbands, and even reflective tires can increase visibility. If you ride at night or in low-light conditions, invest in bike lights. Attach lights to the front, back, and sides of your bike so drivers can see you from all directions, reducing the risk of accidental collisions.
At night, make yourself even more visible with flashing lights. These lights come in different patterns and colors to grab attention. The flashier, the better, as long as you don’t blind anyone. Stick to well-lit roads; if a road lacks streetlights, it might be too dangerous to ride on if you’re not very visible.