Cyclists can get into dangerous situations in the street or on light traffic roads. Cyclists can do a lot to avoid these situations by following some simple tips.
Remember:
- When riding a bicycle, you have to wear colourful clothes that are not too loose, otherwise they may accidentally get caught in the bicycle. Shoes have to be securely on your feet – leave flip flops and formal shoes at home when cycling. Also, you should not wear a hood when cycling, as it reduces your field of vision.
- Cycle on the right side of the light traffic road. When passing pedestrians, you have to slow down and make sure that it is safe to pass. You have to pass on the left side and, if necessary, ring the bell to signal your approach. Check that your bicycle bell is in order!
- If the light traffic road intersects with a driveway, you have to be careful and make sure there are no cars driving out of the yard. When driving out of the yard, drivers often cannot see cyclists behind the fence.
- When approaching a carriageway, you should always slow down and make sure that it is safe to cross. If necessary, you have to stop and let cars pass. Drivers do not have to give way to cyclists crossing a carriageway at an unregulated pedestrian crossing. As an exception, drivers have to give way in a situation where a cyclist crosses the carriageway onto which the driver is turning. But even in this case, the cyclist has to make sure that the driver has noticed them and it is safe to cross.
- Railways may only be crossed at the designated place. Level crossings are for crossing the railway on foot. Before crossing the railway, you have to stop and make sure there is no train coming. You have to cross the railway by pushing the bicycle next to you. When crossing a railway, try to do so as perpendicular to the rails as possible to avoid slipping or getting stuck.
- If you leave your bicycle unattended, park it securely in a suitable place. The bicycle lock should be long enough to extend through the rear wheel and the bicycle frame when securing it to a post.
- Where possible, avoid puddles because you never know how deep they are. Cycling through puddles damages the bicycle and you may fall.
Cycle and pedestrian tracks can be used by cyclists of all ages, but it is important to know the rules and be considerate of others.
Remember that the bicycle has to have working brakes, a bell and reflectors (a white reflector and a flashing white light at the front, a red reflector and a flashing red light at the rear, plus spoke reflectors). Always wear a HELMET!
Stay safe!
Written with the Estonian Transport Administration.
