Traffic Safety Tips
from the Invisible Man
I Used to Think Being Invisible Was A Curse…
But after coming to terms with my pellucidity, I realized I had gained a unique perspective on transportation – one that could save lives. So I’m here to help, because I’m just that kind of guy. Here it is, free of charge, my top three list for getting around town and back home in one piece:
1. Know That You Are Invisible – Didn’t see that coming did you? OK, perhaps you’re not quite as visually challenged as me but you seriously overestimate your conspicuousness. Have you ever heard the expression “The clothes make the man?” I swear sometimes I literally have to put on flashing lights and reflective clothing to get some people’s attention. Even so, I never assume you see me. Why?
How to be an Invisible Bicyclist
Every now and then, I find it is helpful to travel around the city inconspicuously. Say you just robbed a bank or had a really bad break up with your significant other, there are simply times you don’t want to be seen. Now there are the obvious things like dressing in dark clothing, removing all reflective materials from yourself and bike and of course ditching the lights*, but there are some other, less obvious,tricks. Below are a few of my favorites:
Bike on the Sidewalk Against Traffic
The principle on this is pretty straight forward, motorists simply won’t be looking your way. You could be wearing a clown suit and they still wouldn’t see you. It’s like this, when a car is turning from a side street or driveway they are looking for a gap in traffic. Unless they have eyes in the back of their head, you my friend are invisible. Caution is advised though, while you will be focused on avoiding the cars pulling out of drives on your left you just might miss a car turning into a drive on your right. This complex task is best handled at a very slow pace. Read more
Editor’s Note
The opinions of Invisible Man are his own and do not necessarily reflect the official views of WalkBike.Info, its sponsors or anyone in a position of authority. For a more conventional perspective on traffic safety we suggest the following: