Cycling Safety in Ireland with Safely: Sharing the Road Matters
Across Ireland, more and more people are choosing to cycle. Whether for commuting, fitness, or simply enjoying the outdoors. But every day, cyclists are seriously injured or killed on our roads. And unfortunately, the number of incidents continues to rise.
The good news? Many of these accidents are preventable : if we all do our part.
At Safely, we believe that road safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on a bike, your awareness and actions make a difference. Here’s how drivers and cyclists in Ireland can share the road safely and respectfully.
Safety Tips for Drivers in Ireland
Drivers play a vital role in keeping cyclists safe. A few seconds of attention and patience could prevent a lifetime of regret.
Here are some simple but essential tips:
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Watch out for cyclists, especially at junctions, roundabouts, and when turning.
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Check mirrors and blind spots regularly, and be extra cautious near cycle lanes.
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Signal early and clearly, giving others time to react.
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Give cyclists space : at least 1.5 metres when overtaking (that’s the law on Irish roads).
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If there isn’t enough room to pass safely, wait. It’s always better to arrive late than to cause harm.
Safety Tips for Cyclists in Ireland
Cyclists, too, have a responsibility to ride safely and predictably, following the rules of the road and making themselves as visible as possible.
Keep these safety tips in mind:
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Wear a helmet, and use high-vis clothing and proper bike lights (white front and red rear lights are mandatory at night).
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Know the Rules of the Road : the RSA (Road Safety Authority) provides guidance specifically for cyclists.
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Use hand signals to indicate when you’re turning or changing lanes.
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Always do a shoulder check before moving position on the road.
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Never pass a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) on the inside, especially at junctions : it’s a blind spot and extremely dangerous.
Final Word: We All Share the Road
Whether you’re driving through the countryside or cycling through the city, remember : we’re all road users, and respect goes a long way.
Let’s look out for one another.
Drive safe. Ride safe. With Safely.
