Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week, he is advising on getting back into cycling.
- Inflate your tyres to the right pressure, adjust the saddle to the right height for you, and make sure the gears and brakes work properly. You’ve got the right saddle height when you’re sitting on the saddle and touching the ground with the balls of both feet
- Ride defensively and always make the assumption that you may not have been seen
- At a junction never wait on the left of lorries or buses – wait where you can see the driver, and try to make eye contact so you know they’ve seen you too
- If you can’t get in front safely before the lorry or bus moves away, wait behind it, and avoid cycling up the inside of them – they can’t see you
- Keep a door width’s space between yourself and parked cars in case anybody opens the door without looking
- Get the right gear. In dull or dark conditions you must have a white front light and red tail light. Wear something bright or reflective so you can be seen more easily. And wear a helmet.
Elstow said: “With hopefully improved weather over the next few months, why not dust off your bicycle and use it for short trips you would normally make in the car? It’s a good way to exercise and saves on fuel.”
To help drivers stay safe and enjoy their driving this summer, the IAM has a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts, and driving tips, including: driving abroad, cycling, coping with Olympic congestion, and loading the car for a long journey.
