One moment Gerard was on a routine Tuesday morning ride. The next, a driver reversed out of a driveway, changed direction without warning, and lurched directly into his path. With barely a second to react, he steered clear. Here is Gerard’s account of a near miss that highlights just how quickly everything can change on the road.
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Every UpRider has a story. Here is Gerard’s.
What happened prior to this incident and why do you record your ride?
During my Tuesday morning ride along Riverton Drive North, an oncoming vehicle turned into a driveway ahead of me and then began reversing back out onto the road.
Believing the driver would continue reversing, I took evasive action by steering left to avoid a potential collision without braking heavily. At that moment, however, the driver suddenly changed direction and lurched forward directly into my path. I passed immediately in front of the vehicle with very little time or room to react, narrowly avoiding a collision, or, as I jokingly described it afterwards, becoming the new emblem on the front of a Volvo.
I have been recording my rides ever since the original Fly6 and Fly12 cameras became available through Kickstarter. I record because incidents like this can happen without warning, and video footage can provide valuable evidence should an accident occur or an injury be sustained. Fortunately, on this occasion, the footage serves only as a reminder of how quickly a routine ride can turn into a near miss.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
As a solo rider, I often feel more exposed to the potential dangers of riding on public roads. Without the visibility that comes from riding in a group, I rely on staying alert, anticipating the actions of other road users, and recording every ride. While most motorists are considerate, incidents like this reinforce how quickly an unexpected decision by a driver can place a cyclist in a very vulnerable position.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road?
There needs to be greater education and awareness among all drivers that cyclists are legitimate road users with the same right to use the road safely. Motorists have a responsibility to check for cyclists and avoid actions that place them at unnecessary risk. Saving a few seconds is never worth endangering someone’s life. Greater patience and consideration from all road users would make our roads safer for everyone.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
I did not report this incident at the time because, on reflection, I believe I could have made different decisions to avoid interacting with the vehicle. For example, I could have slowed or come to a stop, or I could have steered further to the right-hand side of the road to give the vehicle more space. Although the driver’s actions were unexpected, I felt there were alternative actions available to me that may have reduced the risk of the situation developing.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
Stay alert and assume that other road users may not always see you or anticipate your presence. Keep an eye on driver behaviour and be prepared for unexpected actions — sudden turns, vehicles reversing, or doors opening. Ride defensively, make yourself as visible as possible, and always have an escape route in mind. A few moments of caution can make the difference between a close call and a serious collision.
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