Pedal Power Association issues safety tips ahead of Cape Town Cycle Tour

With the 2024 Cape Town Cycle Tour just over two weeks away, thousands of cyclists are currently preparing for the event.

This year’s race will take place on Sunday, 10 March.

Cyclists are vulnerable road users and when motorists forget to share the road with cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users, fatal or profoundly serious crashes can happen as witnessed over the past weekend along Chapman’s Peak Drive, when a cyclist was critically injured after a head on collision with a motorbike.

As reported by The South African website, the cyclist is currently in a critical condition in ICU after suffering head trauma.

Meanwhile, shortly before Christmas, a cyclist, who was out on a training ride around 05:00, was hit by an alleged drunk driver along the main road in Glencairn, Cape Town.

The driver has been charged with attempted murder, failing to stop at the scene of the crash and driving under the influence.

The accused is currently out on bail and the case, will proceed in the regional court in April. 

READ | Driver arrested after knocking down cyclists in Glencairn

The Pedal Power Association (PPA) always takes the view of “obey the law”.

It constantly appeals to cyclists to be mindful of other road users in congested areas and to always please ride in single file.

To establish mutual tolerance and respect amongst all road users, everyone on the roads need to adhere to the rules of road. 

“The road is a shared space where all road users have rights and responsibilities” explains CEO of the Pedal Power Association, Neil Robinson.

“Cycling is an important part of life in Cape Town and across South Africa – a growing number of us depend on it as a form of transport, while others enjoy their leisure time on a bike. The Cape Town Cycle Tour is an international event hosting cyclists from around the world and the country. As we welcome them back to Cape Town, we call on all Capetonians to help us make this a memorable and safe Cape Town Cycle Tour,” Robinson added. 

“As the Pedal Power Association, we view cycling as an important part of South Africa’s transport solution” says Robinson. 

“Our ‘Stay Wider of the Rider’ campaign, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year, asks drivers and cyclists to take steps to avoid incidents. In South Africa, bicycles are bound by the same laws, and courtesies as motor vehicles. Being considerate and alert on our roads is a shared responsibility.  “For motorists, the key thing is to give cyclists space when overtaking them, or wait until you can safely do so, and for cyclists to be aware of their surroundings and to obey the rules of the road and always cycle in single file,” explains Robinson.  

The Pedal Power Association reminds motorists to be on the lookout for cyclists and to avoid crashes by applying the following rules: 

• When turning left, indicate early that you are turning and always check behind your vehicle on your left for cyclists proceeding straight that you may cut off as you turn; 
• Don’t underestimate the speed of a cyclist approaching from the opposite direction, and don’t attempt to turn quickly in front of them. Cyclists travel at up to 30km/hour and even faster on a downhill; 
• Do not pass cyclists unless it is safe to do so. If having to wait behind cyclists a short hoot will alert them to your presence; 
• Give cyclists at least a metre when passing, and even more in wet weather. You may cross the white line if it is safe to do so when passing a cyclist. Cyclists may have to swerve unexpectedly to avoid an obstacle such as glass or a sewer hole that you as a motorist may not see; 
• Look out for cyclists before opening your door and exiting your car; 
• Do not park or stop in cycle lanes. It is illegal and puts cyclists in danger when passing your vehicle. 
• Always obey the rules of the road 

For cyclists remember the following: 

• Be visible: Wear bright clothing so that drivers can see you. Avoid cycling before sunrise and after sunset, but if you do ride after dark, always wear reflective gear and switch on your lights for extra visibility; 
• When turning, signal to drivers and make eye contact when possible. Ride in a straight, predictable line so that you don’t take drivers by surprise; 
• Check your bike: Before heading out, check your tyre pressure, and brakes to prevent a malfunction that could jeopardise your safety; 
• Ride in groups if possible: More cases of muggings and bike jackings are being reported daily. Connect with other cyclists on WhatsApp for your safety and join Pedal Power’s group training rides on Saturdays. 
• Avoid riding in the early morning. Many fatal hit-and-run crashes take place between 04h00 and 07h00. Also, avoid riding into the rising or setting sun – drivers may not see you. 
• If you can, wear an ICE (in case of emergency) bracelet or have some form of ID with you when out cycling. ICE bracelets have an emergency number should you need medical attention. Having ID also makes it easier to contact your next of kin if you are riding alone. 
• Don’t use your cell phone: It is illegal and unsafe, stop to take or make a call in an area safe to do so. 
• Report accidents and muggings to the SA Police Services and the Pedal Power Association https://pedalpower.org.za/crime-hotspots/. PPA is building a database of dangerous areas to constantly help improve safety and security. 
• Avoid hotspot areas if cycling alone. Lone cyclists are easy targets for criminals. 
• Always be aware of your surroundings. Riding with earphones is illegal and reduces awareness of what is happening around you. 
• Practice extra caution when approaching intersections and do not assume drivers will stop at traffic lights or stop streets. Slow down than be involved in an incident. 
• Always ride in single file and  obey the rules of the road.