There are three driver mistakes that cause the most accidents for bike commuters…
- Not obeying stop signs and pulling to far into the intersection and into your oncoming path
- Passing you and immediately turning right across your path
- Turning left in front of you as you’re going straight through an intersection
Here’s a few tips to safe guard yourself…
- Pedal strong through intersections where you have the right of way. If drivers see you coasting they may think they have time to cut in front of you.
- Be ready to make a fast right turn. The ability to dive into a fast, tight right turn can save your life when a driver makes one of the above mistakes. Spend some time practicing this move when your life isn’t on the line.
- While horns, bells and whistles are useful in some situations, be prepared to yell out. It’s instant and doesn’t require moving your hands.
- Be predictable as possible. Don’t weave in and out of lanes, hold a straight line, signal before turns, etc. The more predictable your movements are, the more comfortable drivers will be with you on the road.