At the same time, the campaign aims to increase the responsibility of all road users and contribute to greater consideration and tolerance on the roads. Whether you are on a cycle path or on the road, the rules apply everywhere. And because children are road users just like anyone else, it is very important to teach them the rules of the road and how to behave properly on a bike from an early age. What are the basic rules we should teach children about cycling?
1. Safe riding starts with a safe bike
Cycling is not just fun, it's a responsibility. Therefore, safe riding starts with a properly serviced and perfectly fitting bicycle that allows your children to sit safely and ride comfortably. This is crucial not only for their comfort, but also for their safety in the event of an unexpected situation.
2. Only wear a helmet on the bike.
Don't go out on your bike without a helmet. A helmet is a safety feature that can save you and your child's health or life. It doesn't matter if you're just riding on a bike path with no people or your child is riding with friends on the street behind your house, a helmet is always a must. An accident can happen anywhere, anytime. Luck favors the prepared.
3. Be aware of visibility.
An important rule of thumb for staying safe on the road is to see and be seen. Wear reflective clothing, reflectors and lights to make yourself more visible to drivers and other road users, even in the dark. Choose clothing in bright colours and don't forget reflective elements on your helmet or backpack. Always adapt your driving to the current road and traffic conditions. Always ride in such a way that you have a safe view of the road ahead.
4. If possible, ride on the cycle path.
If a cycle path is not available, ride on the right at the edge of the road and keep an eye on traffic at all times.
5. The cyclist is the driver.
Therefore, the same rules of the road apply to him as to cars. Therefore, always
obey traffic signs and signals.
6. Be considerate of your surroundings.
It is important to be considerate of other road users when cycling. Respect drivers, pedestrians and cyclists and be predictable in your behaviour. Adjust your speed to the situation and keep yourself and others safe.
7. Give way to pedestrians.
Watch out at crosswalks and cycle paths that are combined - i.e. for pedestrians as well.
Learning as a shared activity
Children learn best by imitation. That is why we should set an example. Follow the rules of the road and show children how to behave properly on the road. Practice is a hundred times better than theory! Drive around with your children and teach them what the rules are and how to behave in a given traffic situation. First, start by practising in a quiet environment - ideally in a park or near your home. Gradually progress to busier environments and learn to handle more complex traffic situations. Always try to explain the rules in the simplest and clearest way possible. Let your child ride under close supervision until you are sure he or she can move safely on the road on his or her own.
Not only in April
The topic of road safety is very important. Remember that safe driving starts with ourselves. Together we can change the statistics and make cycling a safer and more fun activity for everyone! For children and adults. Because the love of cycling blossoms at every age.
