The hours of darkness are increasing, and those long days of summer are starting to feel like a distant memory. This can make the roads more dangerous for all involved, but especially for anyone riding a bicycle, as they are more vulnerable than other road users.
The following tips can help drivers reduce the chance they accidentally injure a bicyclist.
1. Make sure the vehicle’s headlights are working
A lot of drivers are slow to realize that one of their headlights is not working properly and slow to fix it once they do. Driving with a headlight that is not fully operational reduces their ability to see what is ahead of them, including people on bicycles. Regular checks are crucial.
2. Check your windshield washer fluid reservoir and wiper blades
Fall and winter bring increased rainfall. That can make seeing out of a car windshield more challenging, so drivers should ensure their wiper blades are in good condition and their windshield washer fluid reservoir is filled up. The ability to keep the windshield clear and smudge-free reduces the chance they fail to see a bicyclist in front of them.
3. Leave bicyclists more room than usual when it is dark
Many drivers do not leave people on bicycles enough room. It becomes even more important that they do so when it is dark. Even with a good set of lights on their bicycle, the rider will find it harder to see potholes and other hazards they need to avoid. They may only see them relatively late and need to swerve to avoid them. Drivers who pass too close do not allow them to do this safely.
Anyone injured by a motorist while riding their bicycle may want to learn how best to seek compensation.
