Cycling is a popular recreational hobby among casual enthusiasts, a viable career opportunity for professionals like Nicholas Dlamini, who recently undertook the pinnacle of competitive cycling, the Tour de France, and a mode of transportation for many South Africans without access to private vehicles. Cycling in South Africa appeals to people from all walks of life and, although cyclists get a bad rap from motorists, they risk their safety every time they get on a bike. Bike theft, bicycle hijackings, roadside crashes, among other things threaten the lives of cyclists daily. There is no better time than now for our cyclists to equip themselves with the tools and knowledge necessary to stay safe on our South African roads.
Beyond adhering to all of the cycling rules, regulations, and laws outlined by Arrive Alive, the following 5 best road safety tips for cyclists will help you stay safe when you’re pedalling around the streets of South Africa.
Armed Response apps and panic buttons are becoming critical safety tools in all areas of life, particularly for adventurers and individuals who spend their free time outdoors. Cyclists in South Africa are among the long list of active individuals who should consider the addition of an armed response app or panic button when they are out on the roads.
The best security companies should offer both armed response apps and panic buttons for total safety with new, on-demand security technology. Secura prides itself in providing active South Africans with a variety of security products designed to mitigate security threats on our roads, in our homes, and in workplaces. But, what is the perfect product for cyclists in South Africa?
An efficient and effective panic button should be the go-to choice for cyclists as it is incredibly easy to activate from a riding position. Whether placed in your pocket or attached to your handlebars, cyclists can quickly trigger the alert button from a seated position when threatened. Within minutes, a reliable armed security team will arrive on the scene thanks to tracking software installed in the device.
Bicycle hijackings continue to plague South African streets, and many cyclists fall victim to smart criminals developing new tactics to target unsuspecting riders. A common strategy employed by these criminals is to bump or knock the cyclists down with a vehicle, at which point they jump out and steal the bike and belongings of the injured individual. It is essential that cyclists remain vigilant of their surroundings and not only take note of pedestrian activity but motorist activity while on the roads. As a best practice, regularly check behind you and to your sides to ensure that you are not being followed. Always pull over as far left as possible to allow cars to quickly pass you. And, keep your eyes peeled for narrowed detours that would allow you to subtly veer off along paths inaccessible to vehicles.
Criminals are agitated quickly and can become hostile when cyclists are not responsive to their orders during a hijacking. If you are ever in this devastating situation then rather calmly step away from your bicycle and allow the criminals to take your belongings off of you. Avoid making sudden movements like reaching behind your back to pull out your wallet as this can come off as a threatening sign towards the criminals, who may react aggressively. Never put up a fight as your life is far more valuable than your bicycle and belongings.
It is tragic to note that more and more common areas are becoming cycling risk zones for morning and afternoon riders. Unfortunately, one should avoid these particular areas at all costs and develop new routes in busier neighbourhoods where more people are visible should anything tragic occur. According to Business Tech, the following roads remain the most dangerous for motorists and cyclists alike:
If you are not aware of the safety on roads within particular districts and suburbs, please consult your community group on Facebook for greater insight into the threat levels nearby your favourite routes for cycling in South Africa.
Our final tip is to ensure that you cycle in safer areas at safer times of the day. Avoid setting off on a trip before the sun has come up or after the sun has gone down as, not only will you be less visible to motorists but, you will be more vulnerable to night-time opportunity attacks.
From cycling with a trustworthy panic button in your pocket or attached to your handlebars to avoiding dangerous roads and areas, the 5 tips above are critical road safety guidelines cyclists should follow to stay safe out on the South African streets.
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