The weather is getting warmer and the sun is shining so it’s a good time to show a little kindness to other road users. We’ve got some tips from the Institute of Advanced Motorists on sharing the road with other users.
- Keep an eye out for cyclists and motorcyclists and give them lots of space
- Especially leave cyclists enough room when you pass them to allow them to move out to negotiate drains and potholes.
- Overtake thoughtfully. Passing a cyclist quickly might feel safe from inside the metal shell of your car, but it will not for the cyclist – the closer you are, the worse it feels.
- Bear in mind that cyclists and certainly motorcyclists may be travelling quicker than you down the same road. Check all of your mirrors regularly so you see bikes approaching from behind.
- In particular, check your mirrors before either changing direction or changing lanes, especially in traffic queues.
- If a motorcyclist is trying to get past in heavy traffic, let them. Don’t hinder their progress just because you are stuck where you are.
- Give clear and early signals to allow other road users plenty of time to react.
- Don’t cut up a cyclist when turning left. Never overtake then turn left across their front wheel.
- Check for bikes coming before opening the driver’s door when you’ve parked
20th May, 2013
