Eye contact at traffic lights and intersections is very important.
In recent weeks, several accidents have occurred, in which cyclists were hit by cars and trucks. One reason: especially truck drivers overlook the cyclists when turning because they are in the dead corner. According to police, this was the reason for the serious accident on Friday afternoon at the junction B 437, in which a 49-year-old had been seriously injured.
What can be cyclists and car and truck drivers do to prevent such accidents? The “nonprofit asked the police. “The so-called dead angle is a very dangerous condition for all involved in road traffic,” warns spokeswoman Andrea: “He can create dangerous situations and in the worst case lead to a traffic accident.” Here are some tips from the police, the general nature, however also specifically aimed at truck and bus drivers:
For motorists
Always use the shoulder view before turning and changing lanes and use existing mirrors.
When waiting at intersections, keep an eye on the right-hand edge of the road and existing footpaths and cycle paths during the red phase.
At intersections, make eye contact with cyclists and pedestrians who ride on parallel paths – this also goes through the rearview mirror.
When getting out of a parked car, with the view of the shoulder, make sure that the door can be opened safely.
For truck and bus drivers
Bend slowly and keep an eye on the parallel and intersecting bicycle and pedestrian paths.
For truck drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, it always makes sense in intersections to assure each other that you can see each other – preferably through direct eye contact with other road users.
Turn off only when you are 100% sure that no one else is at risk. Your mirrors will help you.
For cyclists / pedestrians
Stay clearly visible at intersections, or stay far to the right of a vehicle and wait until it is completely turned off.
In the “dark season” as well as in bad weather reflective materials or reflective tapes should be attached to the clothing.
For bicycles, functioning lighting and reflective vests are particularly important.
At a red light, you should wait behind a waiting bus or truck.
If pedestrians or cyclists cannot see the driver of a truck or bus through its mirror, they too will not be seen.
In unclear traffic situations, you prefer to forego your own prerogative. This way an accident can be avoided.
When parking vehicles, keep a sufficient distance and make sure that doors can open unexpectedly.