Bike stuff: how to make left turns or I’m an idiot
We’ve featured Keri from Commute Orlando before. By way of Carbon Trace, here’s a nifty Flash animation on how to make four types of left turns on your velo.
So when I ride I do the “Pedestrian Turn.” After watching the video, up comes this message:
Well, I guess I’m an idiot. But you know what? it scares the ISH out of me to merge onto traffic. The least because most roads to UNR are packed with cars. And I get freaked out looking over my shoulder. That’s a moot point now though because my wheels were stolen, so there’s that.
What method do you use to turn left? And how do keep from shitting your pants/ crashing?
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It’s unfortunate that you are “freaked out” looking over your shoulder. It is one of the skills taught in Traffic Skills 101 classes put on by the LAB. Alternatively, you can get a mirror to attach to your helmet or bike, but using a head turn also informs observant motorists that you are planning to make a lane change.
I prefer the standard left turn method and use it on four to ten lane roads, by negotiating each lane in turn. When I signal a lane change, some drivers will not allow me to change lanes, but many are polite and considerate. Sometimes I have to begin the lane changing process as far in advance of the intersection as a half mile, especially on the ten-lane roadways. By the time I’ve negotiated each lane change in turn, I’m at the point to move into the left-turn lane.
Even though it’s not particularly consistent among motor vehicle operators, a turn signal indication from a cyclist is more often met with consideration. I have heard plenty of times, particularly from Northeast drivers that it’s not wise to signal a turn, as it warns the driver behind, and he then speeds up. It hasn’t worked that way for cyclists, I’m happy to say.
Thanks Fred for the comment!
I suffer from what some may politely call lack of coordination. I’ve been in several bike accidents and with each one I get a little more skittish about biking the next time around. Maybe I need a tricycle?
Also – drivers in Nevada and especially California mostly drive like it’s a competition to get to the red light first. Le sigh. Nevada needs better bike laws…in favor or cyclists!