With so many of us getting around on bicycles these days, coupled with an ever-increasing number of people driving, it's important that we all learn to share the road. While drivers may be on the look out for other vehicles, cyclists are harder to see. And in most cases, it's the person on the two-wheeler that fares worst when autos and bikes collide.
Collisions between autos and bikes can also cause severe damage to your car, which can mean that you end up paying higher auto insurance rates because you've had to file an auto insurance claim. Whether you prefer 4 wheels or 2, you might wonder what steps can you take to avoid collisions.
Here are some tips that both drivers and riders can use to stay safe on the road and avoid costly auto insurance claims.
Safety and auto insurance tips for drivers
Reduce speed when encountering bicyclists
Bicycles are considered vehicles, so give them the appropriate right-of-way and treat them with the same consideration you would give another driver.
Give them more time
Keep in mind that bikes take longer than cars to cross intersections.
Be aware
Keep your eyes open because cyclists can be hard to see at times. Pay special attention in intersections and when you open car doors.
Pass with care
Take your time when passing cyclists and give them plenty of room. Wait until it's safe to pass and when you do, be sure to leave at least 3 feet between your car and the cyclist.
Use caution around kids
Expect the unexpected when you see a child on a bike and be especially careful of your actions and your speed.
Safety tips for cyclists
Act like an auto driver
Researchers for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that vehicle safety ratings can determine life or death for drivers. Drivers of highly safety rated vehicles have 74 percent fewer fatalities than poorly rated vehicles while vehicles that are rated "average" have 45 percent fewer fatalities than poorly rated ones.
Be predictable
Avoid swerving into the road or around parked cars. Enter streets and intersections slowly, check for traffic, anticipate road hazards, and adjust your position accordingly.
Stay visible and safe
Wear brightly colored clothing and a helmet. If you ride at night, make sure your bike is fitted with lights or reflective tape, and make eye contact with motorists to let them know you're there.
Safety saves lives — and money
Whether you get around on 4 wheels or 2, be courteous, be careful, and be safe. Esurance rewards safe driving with auto insurance discounts for good drivers in most states. Find out if you're eligible for a good driver discount, or for any other auto insurance discounts. As mentioned above, your primary goal is to avoid causing injury to yourself or anyone else on the road, but keep in mind that safe drivers also save money by avoiding expensive auto insurance claims.