INLSA

Karin Pohl, general manager of Pedal Power Association, says cyclists must always carry identification with them and programme the details of their next-of-kin into their cellphone under ICE (In Case of Emergency).

NATASHA BEZUIDENHOUT

Staff Reporter

Cyclists have been urged to be as visible as possible to motorists and fellow cyclists while out on the road.

With many cyclists training for the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour that takes place on March 11, Karin Pohl, general manager of the Pedal Power Association (PPA), said cyclists should ride as though they were invisible.

The law states that cyclists must ride on the left side of the road, she said.

“Ride a safe distance from the edge to avoid glass, cat-eyes, manhole covers and drains. Narrow, twisty roads without a yellow lane (road shoulder) often pose problems for cyclists because cars battle to pass. If such a road is part of your day-to-day commuting road, take extra care and wear highly visible clothing.”

The National Traffic Act 93 of 1996 and the National Road Traffic Regulations includes the following bicycle-specific laws: you must be seated on your saddle; ride in single file; do not deliberately swerve from side to side; and if you are riding on a public road where there is a bicycle lane, you must use that bicycle lane.

“The PPA is launching a safe cycling campaign next week to focus the attention on safe passing distances between cyclists and motorists, proposing that motorists should pass cyclists with at least a 1.5m gap, as is the norm in many overseas countries,” said Pohl.

She added that it is important to wear a helmet that fitted correctly.

“Apart from it being law, you should always wear your helmet whenever you ride your bicycle. Wearing a helmet that does not offer sufficient protection is not going to help much,” said Pohl.

Make sure the helmet protects not only the top of your head, but also the sides in case you fall sideways.

“Buy the best helmet you can afford - there's an old saying 'If you have a R100 head, buy a R100 helmet” added Pohl.

Using hand signals to indicate your intentions to motorists are also vital.

Cyclists should always carry identification with them and programme the details of their next-of-kin into their cellphone under ICE (In Case of Emergency).

“Carry your medical aid details with you, if applicable, and have identification both on your bicycle and on your person, should you get separated.”

natasha.bezuidenhout@inl.co.za