As the number of cyclists on the road grows, so does the number of accidents between vehicles and cyclists. In 2014, there were 3,401 badly wounded bikers and 113 fatalities, according to official accident figures.
Examiners are aware of this and maybe extra tough with trainees when it comes to dealing with cyclists during a driving test. Because a large number of driving tests are failed as a result of learners driving in a dangerous or incorrect manner around bicycles, this section focuses on the proper way to drive around cyclists.
While this guidance may appear harsh on some cyclists’ inappropriate riding, it is critical that a learner driver be taught not just how to drive safely in and around cyclists, but also how to anticipate those few unexpected and potentially dangerous riders. While motorists can be just as careless and deadly as bikers, this article concentrates solely on cyclists.
Advanced Stop Lines
At light-controlled intersections, advanced stop lines or bike waiting spaces are frequently found in congested locations. All vehicles, including motorcyclists, should stop right before the first white line to keep the cycling waiting area free. This is frequently included in the driving test.
Cycle Lanes
A solid or dashed line runs along the right side of cycle lanes.
- Vehicle drivers are not permitted to cross a solid line in cycle lane A.
- Vehicles are permitted to cross this line into the cycling lane in cycle lane B.
Cycle lanes are either red, green, or have no colour at all, except for the colour of the pavement itself. If possible, avoid driving in a cycle lane during a driving test, whether the line is solid or dashed. Even if the cycling lane has a solid line, it is sometimes necessary to drive in it.
If you notice a coming hazard and decide to drive in the cycle lane, whether it has a solid or dashed line, first check the main interior mirror, then the left-wing mirror, and finally the left blind spot to make sure no cyclists are in the lane before switching over. The examiner will consider this acceptable if proper safety precautions are followed before using a cycle lane.
Dealing with Cyclists on your Driving Test
If you notice a coming hazard and decide to drive in the cycle lane, whether it has a solid or dashed line, first check the main interior mirror, then the left-wing mirror, and finally the left blind spot to make sure no cyclists are in the lane before switching over. The examiner will consider this acceptable if proper safety precautions are followed before using a cycle lane.