A Car Driver's Guide to Dealing With Cyclists

As fuel prices continue to rise and people in general become more concerned for the environment the number of cyclists on the road is increasing. However, this increase in popularity seems to have hardened the view held by numerous drivers that cyclists are little more than an annoyance.

It is true that some cyclists have scant regards for traffic laws, the ignoring of traffic lights being one such example, which fuels the bad feeling. However by choosing the cycle over the car the cyclist is making our already congested roads less congested. Us drivers owe them that at least. The more pleasant the cycling experience the more people will cycle so when driving follow this guide and give cyclists a break.

Overtaking a Cyclist - Because a cyclists rides close to the edge of the road they may swerve to avoid a drain or pothole. This can be dangerous when being overtaken by a car or other vehicle so when overtaking a cyclists try and leave as much space as possible. This will also decrease the power of the wind you vehicle makes.

In Slow Moving Traffic - A cyclist may overtake you on your inside so make sure you check your left mirror before pulling into the kerb or turning left.

At Roundabouts - Cyclists will often feel safer staying in the left hand lane when turning right. So when waiting at a roundabout show caution whenever you see a cyclist on the roundabout. Give them the space and time to be safe.

Left Turns - Never overtake a cyclist just before a left turn so you have to cut in front to make the turn. If see a cyclist on your approach to a left turn reduce your speed and let the cyclist make the turning.

County Lanes - Be mindful of cyclists whilst driving on country lanes. These lanes have twist and turns that can easily conceal a cyclist.

Driving at Night - Although cyclist should have lights turned on at night and at dusk not all of them do so. It is also possible for their lights to be drowned out by the much more powerful lights of cars and other vehicles.

In Windy Weather - Strong winds can make it difficult for cyclists to keep going in a straight line so always leave them more space when overtaking them.

Cycle Lanes - Remember you must not drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a solid white line during the times of its operation. You can park or drive in a cycle lane that is marked by a broken white line but only do so if you have to.