Riding a bicycle provides the perfect opportunities to get exercise, spending quality time with family and friends, enjoy the scenery around you, and cut back on relying on your car. According to Bicycle Network, the last travel census (which was conducted in 2011) showed an increase in bicycle commuting from years before. The next travel census, which is projected to take place in August of 2016, will undoubtedly continue to show an increase of bicycle usage. While there are numerous health and economical benefits to riding a bicycle, it’s important for all cyclists, whether riding for fun or transportation, to make their presence known to other motorists on the road.
Protect Yourself
Before you head out on to the road with your bicycle, it’s important that you are dressed to protect yourself in the event of being involved in an accident with a car, as you as a bicyclist, are the most vulnerable and unprotected motorist on the road. One of the best ways to protect yourself while cycling is by wearing a bicycle helmet. According to NSW law, every bicyclist is required to wear a helmet that has been accredited and manufactured after 2011. A well-fitting helmet that is in good condition (and has not been involved in previous accidents) can reduce the risk of life-threatening and life changing head injuries by up to approximately 75% when involved in an accident with motor vehicles. A helmet that fits correctly should be comfortable, yet secure, when the straps are fastened and the straps should fit snug and not twisted.
Make Yourself Visible
Although other motorists should always be on the lookout for bicyclists, cyclists should never assume that he or she is visible to fellow motorists. Remember, just because you can see a driver, it doesn’t mean that he or she sees you and one of the best ways to be seen is to make yourself as visible as possible. Don’t like the idea of looking like a “flashy” cyclist? Don’t write it off just yet, as it could save your life. Whenever possible, wear bright coloured clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night. If you are commuting to work or another event, consider bringing a change of clothes or wear a reflective or brightly coloured vest.
If you plan on riding at night or during hazardous weather conditions, you are required to have a steady or flashing white light on the front of the bike (visible for at least 200 metres), a steady or flashing red light on the rear of the bike (visible for at least 200 metres), and a red reflector on the rear of the bike (visible for at least 50 metres when illuminated by a vehicle’s headlight on low beam.
Road Rules Apply
In addition to following NSW law by wearing a helmet and making yourself visible to other motorists, it’s also important to know the rules of the road, here are some of the latest laws:
- Drivers in NSW must leave at least one metre of space when passing a cyclist in speed zones of 60km/h or less or at least 1.5 metres in higher speed zones.
- Drivers can cross centre dividing lines or continuous lane-dividing lines or drive on painted islands or dividing strips to pass a bicycle, but only when it’s safe.
- Drivers who fail to follow the new laws can face a $319 fine and two demerit points.
- Cyclists can be fined for the following: riding through a red light, riding dangerously, or not stopping for pedestrians, $425. Riding without a helmet, $319. Other cycling offenses, such as not having proper warning, $106.