The safety of cyclists on our roads has been top of the news agenda after six were killed in London in just over two weeks. In big cities commuters are forced onto bikes to get to and from work due to the cost of motoring, congestion charges and the pressure to be more eco-friendly. On densely congested roads cyclists are extremely vulnerable and should be looked out for and here’s how you can make sure cyclists are safe with you are on the road:

Be more observant

Look, look and look again is the best advice for driving with cyclists on the road with you. Check you blind spot as a matter of urgency as cyclists can be right there and you won’t even notice until it is too late. Try and make eye contact with the rider, so that they know that you are aware of their presence; it just makes life a lot easier for them and you.

Be patient

Being in a rush combined with lots of cars around is a dangerous mix for any cyclist sharing the road with cars. Doing any overtaking at speed multiplies the risk of an incident, so instead be sure to leave cyclists plenty of room and time before making your move. This will allow a cyclist time to notice you and be decisive in their actions to either move out of your way or even help your overtaking manoeuvre.

Obey the Highway Code

Doing the simple things by the book is the easiest way to avoid any potential incidents with cyclists. Simply indicating can warn cyclists and help them understand your intentions and allow them to make provisions for staying out of your way; especially when turning left. Other things like not parking in cycle lines and checking before opening your door can prevent endangering a cyclist’s life.

Leave more space

Cyclists are in the most danger when you are passing them on the road. By getting too close you risk disturbing them to fall off or even hitting them. Being generous with the space you give when overtaking a cyclist is imperative to their safety and that’s why you should only pass when the road is wide and doesn’t narrow further up the road, which could lead to you taking more risks with the manoeuvre. Remember to know the width of your car as vehicles, like 6 Series BMW cars, will be much wider and need more care and space when passing then say a supermini or city car.