Today I have been made aware of a couple of crashes involving bikes.
Sounds like both may have been avoidable by the biker.
It goes without saying that I do not want any road user to get hurt.
One crash was at a junction, car turning right off the main road, bike ran into the side of the car.
There are signs on both directions before that junction warning of the junction.
I believe the car had its indicator on for turning right.
The rider did walk around after the crash, but was taken to hospital (hope they are ok).
I hate to think what may have happened to the biker if a vehicle turned left out that junction ...instead of having a side on crash it would have been a head on crash.
Regardless of who is in the right, regardless of the law, we are the ones that are going to get hurt in a crash.
I have a son learning to ride, and often have discussions about road use.
Some of the obvious key points, like:
Look at the road signs…they give the road user a bit of a clue about what is ahead, they cost money to put up, all councils are tight gits so signs are only erected where are needed, so not only look at the sings but be prepared to take appropriate action.
At Junctions, best not overtake…for a whole heap of reasons!
Where there are domestic or farm buildings…vehicles may be exiting, ie reversing and the driver not being able to see the road...regardless is if the driver is in the wrong, this does happen a lot, in the city and in the sticks.
The road surface...I like to know what I am riding on, and I try to spot the loose items, the liquids, the holes etc, most of the time I try to miss the hazards but sometimes one has to take the path of the lesser hit...ie ride over the pothole or big avoidance which may be more hazardous.
A one-liner that is in the highway code, that I try to remember and put into practice:
Rule 126: "Drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear."
https://www.gov.uk/general-rules-all-dr ... 117-to-126
This is only a brief summary of many things we all do without thinking (much)
If by reading this, and some of you managed to retain part the above (and any responses) in your brain, or it gets you thinking about safe riding, I will be a happy boy.
It would be good if you can post up a simple line or two that keeps you aware on the road.
Me...I am still learning, and trying to pass on anything that may help other road users.
You all... please ride safe
