Whether you’re a driver, a cyclist, or both, you have a responsibility to act in accordance with laws that are meant to keep us all safe.
In Chicago, there’s an undeclared war between drivers and cyclists. Drivers are mad cyclists don’t stop at stop signs. Cyclists are mad drivers speed past too close to them.
In a perfect world, we would all know and follow the rules of the road. However, our world is not perfect and people can be unpredictable.
We want you to be safe out there. Safe from bodily harm, safe from litigation and safe from bad karma! We put together our top tips for both drivers and cyclists based on the behavior we have seen cause the most accidents.
Top 3 Tips for Driving Safely Amongst Cyclists
1. Stay off your phone
The #1 reason for accidents is distracted driving. Cyclists (and scooters) are much smaller and quieter than cars so they can catch you by surprise. You need to be alert at all times.
2. When in doubt, slow down and wait to pass
We’ve all been there, you’re driving down Western or Ashland and a bicyclist is in the right lane up ahead. It might be tempting to squeeze past them, but the law dictates you need to leave 3 ft. clearance between yourself and the cyclist. Slow down, and wait until the left lane clears to safely pass them.
3. ALWAYS check your mirror before opening your door
Cyclists can’t see you inside your car. It is your responsibility to not open your door in front of them. Now that we have protected bike lanes, this goes for passengers too on roads where the bike lane is to the right of parked cars.
Top 3 Tips for Cycling Safely Amongst Drivers
1. Stop at stop signs and red lights
We know it sucks, stopping makes you lose your momentum and then the driver just waves you through anyhow. As annoying as it might be, a crash would be MUCH more inconvenient and possibly lethal. Plus, it’s the law.
2. Signal!
You are required by law to signal when turning or coming to a stop. Familiarize yourself with hand signals here: https://www.bikelaw.com/2021/03/bike-hand-signals/
3. Don’t wear headphones
This isn’t law, but it’s good sense. You need to be as aware of your surroundings as possible to stay safe on the road.
