How to Stay Safe on Roads: Tips for Drivers, Cyclists, and Pedestrians

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Everyone who uses roads shares responsibility for road safety, whether walking, riding a bike, or driving a car. The roads in the UK can be crowded and unpredictable. Every day 5 people lose their lives and 80 are seriously injured in road traffic accidents across the UK.

Road traffic accidents have major, life-altering consequences, so everyone should be mindful of their surroundings. These tips will help pedestrians, bikers, drivers and cyclists to stay safe on the road and minimise the risk of accidents.

For drivers and bikers 

1. Pay attention to the speed limit  

Speed limits exist for a reason. They are there to protect and safeguard people who use roads. Following speed limits not only helps you avoid license penalties but also significantly reduces your risk of getting into a major accident. Always adjust your speed to fit the state and conditions of the road, such as rain, fog, or heavy traffic.

2. Don’t get distracted  

Among the main causes of road traffic accidents is getting distracted. This includes using your mobile phones, in-car entertainment or even eating while driving. Always keep your eyes on the road, and if you must make a call or text, pull over safely first.

3. Always check for blind spots and use indicators  

Two important habits that help avoid accidents are proper use of indicators and consistently checking blind spots. Make sure your route is clear and that your intentions are well expressed before turning or changing lanes.

4. Driving well-rested and sober   

Driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or simply tiredness significantly decreases your reaction time and capacity for judgement. In such cases, either let someone else drive or delay your travel until you are fit to do so.

6. Maintaining a safe distance

Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles in front of you gives you more time to respond to sudden changes. Follow the “two-second rule” on dry roads, yet when it’s raining or the roads are wet, you should increase your distance. Making sure there is enough space can keep you and other drivers safe on the road and prevent rear-end crashes.

For cyclists: Tips on safe cycling

1. Always wear a helmet and high-visibility gear

Wearing a helmet helps protect your head from injuries. To be extra safe, you can wear bright and reflective accessories, especially in low-light weather, which will increase your visibility to other drivers and riders.

2. Use bike lanes and follow road rules   

Cyclists must follow all the rules that a driver does. In addition to that, cyclists can use bike lanes whenever it is possible, preventing cycling in the wrong direction.

3. Give clear signals and make eye contact   

Cyclists often use hand gestures as their form of communication. Give a clear signal and make eye contact with drivers to make sure they grasp your signal and expect your next move if you are about to stop or turn at an intersection.

4. Staying alert and free of distractions   

It can be dangerous and distracting to listen to music or use your phone while cycling. You should always have both hands on the handlebars and be extra cautious in places with a lot of traffic.

5. Regular maintenance  

Ensure you maintain your cycle regularly. Checking your brakes, tyre pressure and light is a step towards safety. Before you are about to set off, check your cycle beforehand to avoid mechanical failures and accidents.

For Pedestrians: Tips for navigating the roads safely 

1. Crossing safely

To walk safely across streets, always use a zebra crossing and make sure to look out for pedestrian traffic symbols. Before crossing, always look out for approaching vehicles.

2. Always walk on pavements  

Stay on the pavement and in areas without one, walk facing the oncoming traffic. By walking on the pavements, you keep a reasonable distance from cars. Walking facing the traffic lets the ongoing drivers know about your position. This helps you avoid collisions and mishaps.

3. Avoid listening to headphones or using phones while crossing roads  

Don’t use any phones or listen to music while crossing. Using such things may create a distraction and become dangerous, leading you to an accident.

4. Eye contact

Always make eye contact to ensure that the driver spots you and intends to stop before you cross the road. This small step can help prevent mistakes and confusion.

Understanding your rights following an accident   

Whether you drive, ride a bike, or walk, following the above precautions will greatly lower the likelihood of road traffic accidents.

Still, accidents happen even with our best efforts to avoid them. If you have been in a road accident, it’s crucial to know your rights and obligations. Contact expert personal injury solicitors for guidance on how to proceed with your claim on a no win no fee policy. A competent lawyer can assist you in filing accident claims and help you to get fair compensation.