Cycling is one of the best ways to get exercise, get around and reduce your carbon footprint. However, cyclists face a host of hazards. They often must share the road with other vehicles, and it is vital cyclists – and drivers – prepare properly for every journey and take some safety precautions. Remember, as a cyclist, you are required by law to follow the rules of the road as described in Part 12 of The Road Code of the Cayman Islands, 2012.
Check your bike is ready for the road before you ride
The seat should be adjusted to the proper height and locked in place
Make certain all parts are secure and working properly
Check that the tires are inflated properly
Make sure the bike is equipped with reflectors on the rear, front, pedals and spokes
A horn or bell, a rear-view mirror and a bright headlight also are recommended
Wear a correctly fitted cycle helmet that is securely fastened for every journey
Keep bikes secure
Make sure drivers and other road users can see you
Whenever possible, cycle during the day
If you do cycle after dark always use lights after dark or when visibility is poor
Ride decisively and keep clear of the kerb
Look and signal to show drivers what you plan to do, make eye contact where possible.
Avoid riding up the inside of vehicles, as you might not be seen
If a vehicle is indicating to the left hang back at the junction to reduce the risk of a collision
Wear high-visibility and reflective clothing and accessories at all times
Cycle safely and obey the rules of The Road Code of the Cayman Islands
Get acquainted with traffic laws; cyclists must obey the same rules as motorists
Obey ALL traffic signs and signals
Ride single-file, on the left, in the direction of traffic
Remain alert, keep your head up and look around - watch for opening car doors and other hazards
Use hand signals when turning and take extra care at busy junctions or roundabouts
Before entering traffic, stop and look right, left, right again and over your shoulder
Pay extra attention in construction zones
Keep both hands on the handlebars unless making a turning signal
Do not ride with passengers on the from or the back of the bike
Using designated cycle lanes and ‘Sharrows’ - shared-lanes
Whenever available, use designated cycle lanes where motor vehicles are NOT allowed
In a marked, designated shared-lane where lanes are too narrow for motor vehicles to pass a cyclist, the cyclist MUST take the full lane
In a dedicated cycle lane, or shared-lane the cyclist must take the full lane when passing parked cars in order to avoid open doors
Advice for drivers
Cyclists are vulnerable road users with the same rights to use our roads as motorists. Help keep them safe and be bicycle aware.
If driving, you should anticipate cyclists, especially at peak times of day
Look out for cyclists, make eye contact where possible to show you have seen them
Use your indicators to signal intentions and look out for cyclists signals
Give cyclists plenty of space - at least 3ft - when overtaking them
Always check for cyclists when opening your car door, pulling out at a junction, or when doing a manoeuvre
Allow other road users to maintain distance, where possible. For example, give cyclists space at traffic lights
Stay well clear of designated cycle lanes and be aware of shared lanes - look for the Sharrow markings and give at least 3ft horizontal clearance for cyclists
This is an initiative of the National Energy Policy on behalf of the Cayman Islands Government, in partnership with the National Roads Authority.
