Attentive driving is a crucial way to protect yourself and others. While some streets have dedicated bike lanes, many bicycle accidents still lead to injury and death each year.
Here are five driving safety tips to help you avoid collisions with bicyclists on South Carolina roads.
1. Give bicyclists room
When you see a bicyclist on the road, give them as much space as you can while remaining in your lane. Additionally, watch them closely and try to anticipate their movements to avoid a collision.
2. Follow the speed limit
Speeding is one of the leading causes of bicycle fatalities. Exercising a little patience when behind the wheel may save someone’s life.
3. Be courteous
As you would yield to other drivers, be considerate of bicyclists. If you decide to let someone on a bike go before you, clarify your intentions with polite hand gestures to let them know they are safe to proceed.
4. Avoid distractions
Avoiding distractions is already a necessary rule to follow, but taking these precautions could save a bicyclist’s life and yours. Do not use your phone. Make sure you have what you need beside you and avoid fidgeting with your mirrors and controls while the vehicle is in motion.
5. Stay aware
All vehicles have blind spots which can sometimes make it hard to see a full-size car, let alone a bicyclist. Double- and triple-check your mirrors and look behind and beside you before you make turns.
Following these driving safety tips can help you protect yourself and bicyclists as you share South Carolina’s roads.