Originally Posted by
01 CAt Man Do
The above advise from CCat is likely the best advise that I've read. That video is spot on. Most of those techniques in the video are just carry overs from what you learn in basic drivers ed classes but in the case of the cyclist a lot of those rules are even more important. The basic difference is in realizing as a cyclist you are more vulnerable and therefore need to be more pro-active in protecting yourself. Sometimes that means demanding more of the road to protect yourself as the video clearly shows. This also means being more aware of the various safety hazards and taking steps to protect yourself when called for. On a bike the hazards are all around you. In urban areas you really do have to be on your toes and stay attentive to what's going on around you. Recognize the danger zones. Intersections are big time danger zones for cyclists, as are areas with lots of cars parked on the sides of the streets. Parked cars also tend to block the view from cars from side streets and conversely hide the side streets from cyclists who are riding in the road. In urban areas keep your eyes moving, watch your speed and make sure the surface you are riding on is clear of debris and or cracks/potholes. The better the riding surface the more control you have over your bike. That said make sure your bike's brakes are always well maintained. Wet roads and wet brakes mean you might have to adjust your speed when needed.
What CCat advised as to how to use lights to become more visible is also very good advise. I use the same strategies for using lights myself. That said I highly recommend wearing the bright "daytime Yellow jerseys or jackets" when riding on the road. Bright colors are just easier for motorists to see.
Totally agree with the comments on this video. Cyclists need to learn to assert their position on the road and quit giving cars a reason or path to push them off the road or into obstacles.
While flashing lights add to visibility, it is still far more important to be in a place where you can be seen first as well as limiting the opportunities for other vehicles to create conflicts. Put another way, if you have all the flashing lights in the world but you let cars try and squeeze past you when you should have been taking the lane, of if you are riding in places where they don't expect to see a vehicle, then you are still going to have problems getting doored, right and left hooked and being squeezed off the road.
I have a bike cop friend who, after decades of experience with bike/vehicle conflicts, believes that principles in this video are far more important that painted lines on the road in terms of cyclist safety. The first time I got this video was from him.
J.