Is it safe to be riding on the road?

While at the bike shop today, I met a new / old cyclist (just bought a bike today after not cycling for over ten years) and she post me a question:
She: Where you usually ride?
Me: Everywhere my heart takes me
She: I mean you ride on pavement (I think she meant PCN) or the road
Me: I do the road…
She: Is it safe? Aren’t you not worried?

Of course I am worry, but you can also worry about using the bathroom slip, fall and knock your head, worry about cancer and a stroke etc. if you so want to. I do take precautions to some extent like wearing a helmet ( I also know it won’t help if a car going 50-80km hitting me from behind), install side mirror (installing it is not enough, you need to know how to glance at it once in a while to check what is behind and how close)

There is a wide range of danger on the road we need to look out for. The ones that matter are big lorries, buses and crazy taxi drivers. More or less in that following order. And of course a whole range of random motorists who cannot stop sms-ing / talking on their mobile phone while driving. But that doesn’t mean we must totally stay away from the roads. I will usually study my route, the timing and pick less crowded route and off-peak hour (if that is possible to minimize the risk).

When on the road, try to be polite, eye contact, wave (or nod your head) to say thank you and don't try to piss them (bus and lorry drivers) off.

Wave (or nod your head) to say 'Thank you' if it safe to
so.

One time I collided using the PCN. That is human error. It’s always rider error. That is why we need to be focused 100% being on the road. No less. Other than the above I can’t remember if I have any bad experience.
From my little experience, common sense will keep you safe, read the sign and don't be stupid.



Enjoy a short video below:

Keep riding, keep it fun and be safe

Fluidrider