There is a call on drivers to slow down and keep a safe distance when overtaking cyclists on both urban and rural roads. Not only during the upcoming National Bike Week which runs until Sunday June 30, but every day of the year. Cyclists are also being reminded to follow the rules of the road.
All road users need to be aware there will be an increase in the number of cyclists on the road over this period, with drivers in particular being asked to treat them with respect and to share the road safely.
Three important pieces of advice for drivers:
- Give cyclists the space to ride safely when overtaking them. (One metre in speed zones up to 50 km/h and 1.5 metres in zones over 50km/h ). Cyclists can be thrown off course by sudden gusts of wind or when having to avoid uneven road surfaces.
- Check mirrors regularly. Remember a cyclist could be in your blind spot, look carefully before making your manoeuvre or getting out of a parked vehicle.
- If you or passengers are getting out of the vehicle make sure you check for passing cyclists before opening the door.
The RSA and Cycling Ireland have launched an adult cycle training programme as part of Bike Week. The aim of this programme is to provide an excellent standard of cycle safety and skills training so that participants develop the competence and confidence to cycle safely on the road network. Through the training it is promoting the understanding that the road is a shared space and that we must adapt our behaviour in recognition of other users.
The programme is currently being delivered to participants in the South Dublin region and is available nationwide. The RSA will also have an information stand at the Velo-city Dublin 2019 global cycling conference which takes place during Bike Week.
