Previously, we’ve shared some tips that as cyclists must follow to ride safely on streets, however, now, as motorists is correct to know some key actions to protect cyclist.
When you drive a car, and also ride a bike, is easier to sympathize with cyclists. After all, the risks are unknown and danger sensations that cyclist are exposed can happen in seconds.
On the other hand, when we commute by car, can be more difficult to sympathize with bike users. For that, in this occasion we have some tips to have a better road co-existence.
Drive at speed limit to protect cyclist and pedestrian
The first rule is the most essential and basic one: Respect speed limit. This measure not only allow you to protect cyclists but pedestrians and motorists, and of course yourself.
Don’t forget that in hospital, schools, parks and shelter zones in Mexico the speed limit can variate from 12 to 15 mph, depending on the traffic regulations.
Allow cyclist to take the lane
For safety purposes most of cyclists prefer to ride next to the sidewalk, they have the right to take the full lane. This is not a whim, but has the purpose of protect a cyclist. Even, is considered in 17th article of the traffic regulations.
Areli Carreón, mayoress of bike in Mexico City (CDMX), indicates that “taking that position, as cyclist you’re highly visible. Avoiding high speed exceeding and reduce the risk of dooring”.
This rule applies when exist cyclist infrastructure in roads, in other words, bike ways and lanes. If these exist, bike users must circulate within them.
Overtake them but carefully
Yes, cyclists can occupy a complete lane, you can overtake them too but with caution. However, by doing this you will have to keep a lateral distance of at least 4.9 ft.
It has to be emphasized that you can overtake occupying the opposite lane partially or totally, whether or not is a continuous line. Of course, considering there’s no car on the opposite way.
Don’t invade bike route, is made to protect cyclist
As cyclist must use bike ways, motorists must use their lane and avoid the invasion of bike lanes. It doesn’t matter if its just to park. This exclusive lane is not a parking lot for cars. In fact, that’s the reason of why is protected with physical barriers such as confibicis or flexible posts.
If you need to park, do it on street or parking stalls. It has to be emphasized that if you park on a bike way, you can receive a ticket and be taken to impounds.
Yield to cyclist, use your rear-view mirrors and turn signal lights
Remember that before law, pedestrians and cyclists have the yield before cars. If you need to turn in a corner, before doing it, use your direction indicator lights, check your rear-view mirrors and make sure no cyclist come.
If a cyclist gets closer or a pedestrian is going to cross, reduce your speed and yield at intersections and crossings.
Never open the door without looking behind
One of the greatest actions to protect cyclist is this. When parking your car, before you or passengers get off the car, make sure no one is going to pass by bike.
One of the greatest accidents against cyclists is the impact with car doors. This happens when passengers or motorists open the door suddenly and cause the impact and fall of cyclist. Be careful, if this happens and if as motorist was your fault, you will have to cover all the expenses as medical ones of the injured person.
Respect traffic rules
We know, we are far to have a road culture and mutual respect among the different people that in one way or another transit by streets. Cyclists also have their own obligations and responsibilities, as their restrictions.
We invite you to explore and follow these recommendations we gave you to achieve a better co-existence.
See you later. Ride and drive safe.
