Slowly I'm discovering a key reason, especially in New Zealand, for the low numbers of cyclists on the road is safety. The cycle lanes are coming slowly, eluding many safety based problems. Along with the recognition of cyclists as road users by others (ie motorists). Problems still continue to arise though, and when they do often the results are NOT pretty. When cyclists are out on the road, what can they do to protect themselves?.
-The key thing is be Assertive, know what is always happening anywhere near you and predict what can/may happen. Just like when driving.
-Be seen, drivers (N.B. generalisation) aren't looking out for cyclists, turn to fluorescent colours. At night, always use lighting (required by law) and don't be afraid to light up like a Christmas tree. Multiple handlebar and helmet lights even, with the mandatory red lights on the back. Even if you don't need them, its visibility.
- Road rules still apply, red lights still mean stop.
- Try and stay away from the side of the road, especially where cars are parked. Car doors are effective stopping devices.
-The key thing is be Assertive, know what is always happening anywhere near you and predict what can/may happen. Just like when driving.
-Be seen, drivers (N.B. generalisation) aren't looking out for cyclists, turn to fluorescent colours. At night, always use lighting (required by law) and don't be afraid to light up like a Christmas tree. Multiple handlebar and helmet lights even, with the mandatory red lights on the back. Even if you don't need them, its visibility.
- Road rules still apply, red lights still mean stop.
- Try and stay away from the side of the road, especially where cars are parked. Car doors are effective stopping devices.
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4 comments:
What else do you think the government can do to promote more people to cycle? if safety is the big issue maybe if we spent more tax payers money on making it safer to cycle more people would actualy do it.
Perhaps one idea is to create certain cycle lanes that people could use to get from home to work. But not only more cycle lanes in main traveling areas are needed. Why not have rails that run along side these lanes to protect people from cars. Doing this would surely make cycling look like a more viable option for traveling to work!
IF a cycle lane was put in place across the harbour bridge with these protecting rails i can see a lot more people getting on that bike, the on ramps are also a problem, these lanes would be good on the main ones.
Anyway just a thought!
Maybe i should run for Mayor
I know i could do a lot better than Dick!
What else do you think the government can do to promote more people to cycle? if safety is the big issue maybe if we spent more tax payers money on making it safer to cycle more people would actualy do it.
Perhaps one idea is to create certain cycle lanes that people could use to get from home to work. But not only more cycle lanes in main traveling areas are needed. Why not have rails that run along side these lanes to protect people from cars. Doing this would surely make cycling look like a more viable option for traveling to work!
IF a cycle lane was put in place across the harbour bridge with these protecting rails i can see a lot more people getting on that bike, the on ramps are also a problem, these lanes would be good on the main ones.
Anyway just a thought!
Maybe i should run for Mayor
I know i could do a lot better than Dick!
Hello Ross
Like you've said in this article, cyclists should be safe when on the road at all times day and night. Drivers should also be cautious on the road looking out for cyclists where they are and what situation there in. I agree and believe with you that cyclists should be assertive, meaning knowing where you are and what's happening around you. Cyclists also make sure they can be seen at night, having helmets with lights on. Overall when cycling always be safe!
I'd vote for you louie!.
So cycle lanes are so vital in safety, especially for the masses. It needs to be drummed in to motorist's heads though, that cyclist's exist and you need to pay special attention for them. If the cycle lanes could be fully seperated it would be optimal, even covered! but we're tough. Our own space, seperated or non-seperated would be thoroughly appreciated. More advocacy is needed, I have seen various orginasations from Auckland increasing there presence, especially with the continued petrol price hikes.
Fingers crossed the harbour bridge plan will go ahead, especially with the desire to get people out of there cars. We will probably find out in a few months.
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