In anticipation of another beautiful South African summer, many of us are looking forward to enjoying the warm weather outdoors.<\/p>\n
This will include cyclists, who remain a vulnerable group among road users.<\/p>
The Automobile Association (AA) has encouraged motorists and cyclists to adhere to the rules of the road, focus on the road and traffic, and acknowledge everyone on the road, in a bid to improve road safety.<\/p>\n
Cyclists often compete for limited road space with other road users, which can sometimes lead to aggressive behaviour, resulting in confrontations.<\/p>
The AA has urged all road users to keep calm on the road and to respect others.<\/p>\n
\u201cMotorists can ensure their own and cyclists\u2019 safety by applying the following tips,\u201d said the AA.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Yield to cyclists, especially at intersections and circles.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Check your blind spots and ensure the way is clear before changing lanes or turning.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Don\u2019t drive, stop or park in bicycle lanes (where they are available).<\/p>\n
\u2022 Be patient and overtake only when it is safe to do so.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Give cyclists more than enough room when overtaking.<\/p>\n
\u201cCyclists, too, have a responsibility to ensure their safety and should,\u201d said the AA.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Ensure that your bicycle is safe and roadworthy, especially if it hasn\u2019t been used over winter.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Always obey traffic laws.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Keep left and keep at least one metre clear of pavements and parked cars.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Make sure you and your bicycle are as visible as possible when on the road (wear reflective clothing).<\/p>\n
\u2022 Always wear a protective helmet with the chin straps properly fastened.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Ride in single file and use clear hand signals when turning or changing lanes.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Use lights when riding in low light or at night.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Be courteous to other road users and avoid confrontation.<\/p>\n
\u201cCyclists should also avoid transporting passengers on their bikes, as this can obstruct their view.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs with any other mode of transport, cyclists should also ensure their bikes are in good condition, including the brakes and tyres, and that their bikes are suited for the rider\u2019s weight and height,\u201d the AA said.<\/p>\n
The association also noted that cyclists must adhere to regulations that prohibit them from riding on freeways and be aware that it is illegal for cyclists to hold onto other vehicles while they are in motion.<\/p>\n
Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor)\u00a0<\/span>germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za\u00a0<\/a><\/strong>or Leigh Hodgson (News Editor)\u00a0<\/span>leighh@caxton.co.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>or\u00a0Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist)\u00a0kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Remember to visit the Germiston City News on the following social media platforms:<\/p>\n Facebook<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Twitter<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Instagram<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n YouTube\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Or add the GCN on\u00a0<\/b><\/span>WhatsApp 079 406 1181<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>or\u00a0BBM (BBM Pin: 7F102137)<\/strong>\u00a0<\/b><\/span>today, to get all the latest news.<\/p>\n Catch-up on more local news with our sister newspapers\u00a0<\/span>Bedfordview Edenvale News<\/a><\/strong>,\u00a0<\/span>Alberton Record<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span>Kempton Express<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n