Watch out for cyclists and motorcyclists. 14/10/16


As drivers we should all be aware of what vehicles are around us at all times.

Large vehicles are obviously easy to spot, but small vehicles such as bicycles, motor scooters and motorbikes are not only harder to see, but they can also manoeuvre rapidly and sometimes unpredictably in slow traffic.

Here are some tips to improve your awareness of these vehicles:

  • Keep a look out for cyclists and motorcycles. Making eye contact will re-assure them that they have been seen

  • Check for cyclists/motorbikes when you are about to pull out of a junction. Also if you are approaching a junction, look out for cyclists/motorcyclists pulling out

  • Allow them plenty of space when you overtake, as they may have to swerve to avoid an area of poor road surface or someone who unexpectedly opens the door of a parked vehicle

  • If you are looking to change lanes, remember a motorcycle could move quickly into that space. Always check your blind spot

  • When turning, be aware that parked cars or large vehicles can obscure an approaching motorcycle or bicycle

  • Double check over your shoulder for motorcycles/cyclists when turning

  • Some junctions and pedestrian crossings have advanced stop lines to enable cyclists to get in front and have better visibility. All drivers must stop at the first white line and allow cyclists to move off first when the lights change to green

  • Drivers should always use their indicators well before they manoeuvre so it is clear to other vehicles what they are about to do

  • Be aware that cyclists/motorcyclists may attempt to get passed you on either side when you are in a traffic queue

  • Check your side mirror and over your shoulder before you open the door of a parked vehicle



All content is believed to be correct at time of publication.


No need to claim on your insurance

Anyone who has been involved in a road accident has the right to choose who repairs their vehicle. If you were responsible for the accident you were involved in, the company that insures your vehicle would normally deal with your accident claim.

However if you were not at-fault for the accident, you can choose to either claim on your own insurance policy or make a claim independently of your insurer. To find out more call 02392 484 244 and we will be happy to help.

We and our partners help thousands of people make independent accident claims. Our service enables motorists to get the help and assistance they need to resolve their accident related issues, with the costs being recovered directly from the at-fault driver on your behalf.

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Unfortunately even if an accident was not your fault, your insurer will almost certainly require you to pay your excess before any repair is started on your car.

This money should of course be recovered by an insurer at a later date, but with our service - you do not have to pay it at all.

By using our independent claims service, you are not making a claim on your insurance policy and so you will have no excess to pay.

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Not all insurance policies will include a replacement hire-car for you to use if yours is damaged and unroadworthy. In fact it is typically an 'optional extra' on your policy.

Other policies may offer a 'courtesy car' but this is often just a 'basic' saloon or hatchback which may not be suitable for your needs.

Car Call and its partners will provide a comparable replacement vehicle as part of our service. This means we will endeavour to supply a hire-vehicle that similar to your own in terms of its type, make and engine size.

So whether you drive a small hatchback or a prestige sports car, we will look to provide a similar hire-vehicle that suits your needs.

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Many of our accident repair centres are have manufacturer approvals for specific brands, so if you require a manufacturer approved repair centre, simply tell your personal claim handler and they will ensure your vehicle goes to an approved repairer.

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They issues they can assist you with include:

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