HOW DO I CYCLE SAFELY NEAR LARGE VEHICLES?

Understanding vehicle blind spots

Cycling alongside large vehicles like buses, trucks, and construction equipment presents one of the greatest hazards on the road. The key factor is the blind spot — areas around the vehicle where the driver has limited or no visibility. Unlike cars, which generally have smaller blind spots, larger vehicles can hide entire bicycles and even cars within these zones.

A crucial step in safe cycling is to identify these blind spots. They usually include the areas directly alongside the vehicle’s cab, behind the trailer, and sometimes right in front of the truck due to the elevated driving position. If you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, assume the driver cannot see you. This golden rule should shape how you ride near any large vehicle.

Practical steps for avoiding blind spots

• Avoid riding directly next to the cab or trailer where visibility is lowest.

• Stay several car lengths behind large vehicles to prevent rear blind spot collisions.

• Move ahead decisively at intersections instead of lingering by the vehicle’s side.

• Make eye contact with drivers whenever possible to confirm they know you are there.

Blind spots are not just static; they change depending on speed, weather, and road conditions. Rain or fog can make it even harder for drivers to see cyclists. Understanding this dynamic nature of visibility helps you adapt your positioning to stay out of danger zones.

Finally, cyclists should remember that blind spots expand when a vehicle turns. Wide turns made by trucks or buses can trap a cyclist riding too close to the curb. Keeping a safe buffer at all times ensures you never end up in a squeeze situation during these maneuvers.

Positioning and road awareness

Road positioning is the single most effective tool a cyclist has for safety. Where you place your bicycle relative to traffic dictates how visible you are, how much room you get, and whether drivers respect your space. Too often, cyclists hug the curb out of fear, but this can actually make them less visible and more vulnerable to large vehicles swinging wide or drifting close.

The safest approach is to ride with confidence in the lane. Position yourself about one meter away from the curb to avoid debris, drainage grates, and sudden door openings. This also signals to drivers that they must give you adequate space when overtaking, rather than attempting dangerous near passes.

Key strategies for smart positioning

• Take the lane when necessary, especially on narrow roads where vehicles cannot pass safely.

• Avoid weaving in and out of parked cars, as this makes you unpredictable to drivers.

• Anticipate intersections early; move into a clear position so drivers know your intended path.

• Use bike lanes responsibly, but do not let them trap you beside large vehicles at stoplights.

Road awareness extends beyond your lane position. Cyclists should constantly scan for potential conflicts, such as buses pulling into stops, delivery trucks unloading, or construction vehicles maneuvering. By reading the road like a chessboard, you can predict risks before they materialize.

Another overlooked factor is speed management. Riding too fast to “beat” a truck through an intersection may put you directly into a turning path. Conversely, riding too slowly beside a moving bus can lock you into its blind spot. Matching your pace intelligently with surrounding traffic helps you maintain control of your safety buffer.

In short, positioning and awareness turn you from a vulnerable passenger of chance into an active participant in your safety. With each movement and placement of your bike, you influence how vehicles interact with you on the road.

Defensive cycling techniques

Defensive cycling doesn’t mean being timid — it means being proactive about your safety. Large vehicles move with mass and momentum that cyclists cannot challenge, so your tactics must focus on predictability, visibility, and anticipation. The stronger your defensive habits, the less likely you’ll be caught in dangerous situations.

At the core of defensive cycling is communication. Hand signals, head checks, and deliberate lane changes all show drivers exactly what you plan to do. This reduces surprises and increases respect. Even subtle cues like turning your head before merging can alert a driver that you intend to move.

Essential defensive practices

• Signal early and clearly when turning or changing lanes.

• Wear reflective clothing and use strong front and rear lights, even during daylight.

• Always prepare an escape route — such as a shoulder or open space — in case a vehicle veers too close.

• Never assume drivers will yield; ride as though you are invisible until proven otherwise.

Cyclists also benefit from adopting a “safety margin mindset.” For example, if you suspect a bus will cut across your path to reach a stop, slow down preemptively rather than forcing a close encounter. Defensive cycling means giving yourself time and space, which are the most valuable assets on the road.

Finally, defensive techniques should evolve with context. Night riding demands brighter lights and more conspicuous clothing. Rural highways may require taking the lane more aggressively to discourage unsafe passing. Heavy rain might reduce your braking ability, making it necessary to increase following distances. By tailoring your habits to conditions, you stay one step ahead of large vehicles and unpredictable traffic flows.

Cycling near large vehicles will always carry some risk, but with disciplined defensive techniques, you transform risk into manageable challenge. By riding predictably, signaling clearly, and staying alert, you don’t just survive traffic — you master it.