Sharing the Road with Cyclists and Motorcyclists: A Guide for Irish Learner Drivers
Adapting to road rules and developing an awareness of your surroundings are paramount for learner drivers. In 2023, the Road Safety Authority reported that over 1,600 cyclists suffered serious injuries or fatalities over the previous seven years.
Most of these accidents could have been avoided if drivers had played a bigger roles in the cyclists’ safety. In this guide, Driving Class aims to help new drivers to better understand how to share the road safety more harmoniously with bikes and motorbikes.
Understand the risks for cyclists and motorcyclists
Cyclists and motorcyclists are more vulnerable than car drivers. Without the protective shell of a car, they face greater risks in collisions.
Driving Class tip: Always remember the heightened vulnerability of these road users and maintain a safe distance.
Use your mirrors
Before turning, changing lanes, or making any manoeuvre, always check your mirrors. Bikes and motorbikes often overtake cars in periods of slower traffic flow.
Driving Class tip: Regularly glance at your side and rear-view mirrors, even if you’re not making a move. This will help you to stay aware of cyclists and motorcyclists around you.
Give cyclists and motorcyclists ample space
When overtaking a cyclist or motorcyclist, ensure you leave a minimum of 1.5 metres of space.
Driving Class tip: It may help to imagine that the motorcyclist or biker has an invisible protective bubble around them, and to know that it’s your job not to invade it.
Check before opening your door
We’ve all been the victim of being (nearly) hit by a car door opened by someone not paying attention. Always check for oncoming cyclists before opening your door.
Driving Class tip: Adopt the ‘Dutch reach’ method by opening your door with the hand furthest from it (in Ireland, this would be your left hand). This forces you to look over your shoulder and avoid unfortunate “dooring” incidents.
Beware of blind spots
Perhaps the toughest part of sharing the road with cyclists and motorcyclists is how easily they can disappear into your car’s blind spot. This is where most accidents happen, so always check twice.
Driving Class tip: Consider adding blind-spot mirrors to your vehicle to expand your field of vision.
Respect bike lanes
Bike lanes are designated for cyclists. Avoid driving or parking in these lanes, even if you see other vehicle drivers doing so.
Driving Class tip: Watch for intersections or areas where bike lanes end, as cyclists might merge with regular traffic.
Understanding the signaling
While motorcyclists have indicators, cyclists use hand signals to indicate turns and stops. Familiarise yourself with these signals.
Driving Class tip: Keep an eye out for cyclists’ hand gestures, especially at intersections and turns.
Nighttime considerations
Although cyclists and motorcyclists are required by law to wear reflective clothing at night, you’ll quickly see that this rule isn’t always followed in Ireland.
Driving Class tip: Reduce your speed in areas where these road users are common, and always use your headlights.
Concluding remarks
A few members of the Driving Class team are avid road cyclists, so we’re huge advocates for cyclist and motorcyclist safety.
As a learner driver, you have the opportunity to set the ground rules for good driving from the outset. But sharing the road isn’t just about following rules — it’s about respect, patience, and understanding the challenges faces by each road user.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can play your part in contributing to safety for everyone on the road. Safe driving!
