Causes and Prevention of Bicycle Accidents

A BICYCLE is more difficult to handle than a motorcycle. Remember, a cyclist not only has to pedal but also steer at the same time. Therefore, it is dangerous to give someone a lift.

Causes of Accidents

• Riding abreast
• Disregarding road signs
• Weaving between vehicles
• Riding on or over sidewalks
• Not being visible in the dark
• Adverse weather conditions
• Riding too close to parked vehicles
• Carrying a passenger
• Failing to stop at pedestrian crossings
• Swinging suddenly in front of vehicles
• Performing tricks on the street
• Holding on to moving vehicles

Prevention

• Always wear a helmet to protect the head
• Keep left and ride in a single file
• Obey traffic signs
• Keep to the side of the road in heavy traffic
• Push your bicycle on a sidewalk instead of riding it
• Wear light-coloured clothes after dark for greater visibility
• Ensure that your bicycle has lights that work and a white reflector in front and red one at the back
• Maintain a safe distance when riding past parked vehicles
• Carry parcels and cases that are securely fastened to the carrier
• Make sure it is safe before riding on to a street
• Sit astride on the bicycle with both hands on the handlebars
• Maintain a safe following distance behind another bicycle or vehicle

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