Tricky encounters

Overtaking parked vehicles

A high level of observation is needed when you plan to overtake a parked vehicle:

• Is the driver still behind the wheel?
• Is the engine running?
• Is an indicator flashing? If so, the driver could be about to move off.
• Look out for pedestrians who may cross from between parked cars
• Always look behind for traffic before you attempt to pull out to overtake a parked vehicle. If traffic is too close, pull into the left and wait until it has passed

When it is safe to overtake, give a clear right arm signal and pass the vehicle, leaving plenty of room should a door be opened

Having passed any parked vehicles, return to the left side of the road.

There is no need to signal

Large Vehicles

Cyclists and large vehicles do not mix well. Therefore a great deal of care and consideration is needed by both. Most incidents involving cyclists occur when large vehicles are:

• Turning left at a junction across the path of a cyclist or
• Overtaking a cyclist

When cycling near large vehicles...

• Avoid riding on the inside of a lorry. Wait until it moves off
• Be aware that although drivers may not indicate, they could still turn
• All vehicles have blind spots, so presume that you may not have been seen and always wait for them to pull off before setting off yourself
• Be mindful that side winds from large vehicles may affect your stability as they pass
• Make sure that your clothing is highly visible, that you wear a helmet, keep clear of the kerb – and give good clear signals to warn all drivers of your intentions

Passing side roads

When riding along the road, be aware that drivers often come out of side roads without giving way to cyclists

As soon as possible, look into each side road to check for traffic

Are drivers indicating left or right? Have they seen you?

Be ready to slow down, stop or turn to avoid being hit, should a vehicle pull out in front of you.