A row of parked cars looks like a solid wall, but it hides more than you might think. People walking, especially children, sometimes step out from between two cars to cross the road, often without looking properly. They may be chasing a ball, hurrying to a friend or simply thinking of something else. For cyclists, awareness of this is the first step to riding calmly past, and knowing this in advance helps you stay relaxed.
Ride slowly and look through the gaps
When you pass a line of parked cars, slow down a little and keep your fingers near the brakes. Look through car windows and between vehicles for movement, and glance at the gaps as you approach them. Sometimes you can spot feet under a car, a hat above a bonnet or a bag being swung. Small signs like these tell you that someone may be about to step out.
Give yourself space. If you ride a little further from the parked cars, you have more room to react and the person has more time to see you. A friendly ring or a cheerful hello as you approach can also alert people to your presence. If you notice a person about to step out, ease off gently and let them go first with a nod or a smile.
Take extra care near schools, parks, shops and ice cream vans, where people tend to cross in unexpected places. Children may be excited and forget to look, so give them extra room and stay ready to stop. Be patient, even if a crossing takes a while, because rushing is when small mistakes happen. A calm cyclist is a gift to any street.
Talk to your children about this from both sides. As cyclists, they can learn to watch for people stepping out. As pedestrians, they can learn to stop at the edge of a parked car, look both ways and listen before crossing. Follow the rules that apply where you are cycling, and remember that good habits are built one ride at a time.
