How to practice safe driving for yourself, pedestrians and cyclists

The car continues to be the most convenient means of transport for getting around. However, more and more people are traveling on foot or by bicycle, which is why motorists must pay particular attention to ensure not only their own safety, but also that of cyclists and pedestrians.

If you usually travel by car, here are 14 tips on what precautions to take, for your safety and that of those traveling without the protection of the car interior.

1. Don’t forget to use your turn signals

Although the The highway code requires the use of direction indicators When we change direction, sometimes it seems like there is no one around us, so we think there is no need to use it. However, remember that blind spots can hide a pedestrian or cyclist. Therefore, it is better to be safe than sorry and always turn on the indicator to signal a change of direction. Create this habit and avoid unexpected events.

2. Pay attention to intersections

It is at the crossroads that most accidents involving cyclistswhy drivers pay more attention to larger vehicles. It is essential to take care of it look in all directions and make sure there are no cyclists or pedestrians (such as people running, for example) nearby.

3. When overtaking cyclists and athletes, be patient and give them space

When we are running or cycling and we are overtaken by a car, we can become frightened, especially if the vehicle passes very close to us. This represents a danger, because the fright can, for example, cause a fall. As a driver, you must maintain a distance of 1.5 meters from pedestrians or cyclists. If you cannot guarantee this safety distance, wait until it is safe to overtake.

4. Be careful before opening doors

For the driver, Opening the car door to get out is simple. and almost unconscious, but for a cyclist or pedestrian who is not aware of this possibility, This gesture can create a very dangerous situation. Contribute to everyone’s safety and always be careful before opening your car door, looking behind you and in the rear-view mirror.

5. Look for and understand cyclist signals

In addition to the gestural signaling used by cyclists, you need to know it and be aware of it other signals that can show us the cyclist’s intention. Sometimes cyclists can forget to use appropriate gestures and we must always be careful.

6. Eliminate distractions

Traveling with passengers who require our attention, with children or using a cell phone are some of the distractions that can occur take your eyes off the road and cause an accident. The biggest distraction is undoubtedly the cell phone. We recommend that you avoid using it while driving as much as possible, even if you have a hands-free kit, as, for example, receiving a text message could distract you from driving.

Furthermore, you could incur fines that can vary between €250 and €1250, you could lose points on your license or even on the license itself.

7. Whistle only in case of emergency

Once again, for the driver, using the horn is a spontaneous gesture. However, This sound, when sudden and unexpected, can scare pedestrians and cyclists. Only use your car horn if absolutely necessary.

8. Use mirrors and look for blind spots

Get into the habit of looking at your center and side mirrors regularly, and not just to check for other cars. Mirrors are extremely useful for checking if there are pedestrians or cyclists on the road.. Also remember blind spots.

9. Use lights, but carefully

When we drive at night, we use headlights to create signals to other cars. Why not do the same for pedestrians or cyclists? However, if they are traveling in the opposite direction, you must be careful, because in the case of cyclists the lights can dazzle them, causing possible imbalances and falls.

10. Pedestrians on crosswalks

When pedestrians use crosswalks to cross streets or roads, they know they have priority, so they tend not to look both ways before crossing. Keep this in mind every time you approach a pedestrian crossing.

11. Drive carefully in car parks and bus stops

There may be pedestrians behind a parked car or stopped bus. To avoid accidents, pass a certain distance in front of parked cars and do not pass stopped buses..

12. Reverse carefully

When we reverse, it is more difficult to see pedestrians and cyclists. Use your mirrors and, if necessary, turn around to examine all angles. Always perform this maneuver slowly to ensure everyone’s safety.

13. Don’t get distracted on the roads you already know

Throughout our lives, we know certain paths like the back of our hand. This feeling of security can be counterproductive. We stop paying so much attention to our surroundings and can be surprised by pedestrians or cyclists. Always be careful, even on routes you know well.

14. Know the rules for pedestrians and cyclists

In addition to respecting the Highway CodeAlso inform yourself about the rights and duties of pedestrians and cyclists. Bearing in mind that we all share the same space, it is important to be in tune.

Even following these suggestions, accidents may occur. In addition to being required by law for anyone who has a car, to have one Good car insurance like that of Generali Tranquilidade is extra protection for motorists, but also for all those who travel on public roads.