Facilities for cyclists
As part of its Schéma Départemental des Aménagements Cyclables (SDAC), the Gard Departmental Council also wanted to make cycling safer in rural areas on departmental roads, for the benefit of cyclo-sporters. To this end, several types of improvements have been made:
development of over-widths and cycle paths along departmental infrastructures. Examples include the cycle track along the RD 936 between Ners and Vézénobres, the coloured over-widths along the RD 135 in Marguerittes and Bouillargues;
development of safe concrete islands in about ten roundabouts throughout the territory;
specific signage (slopes, distances to the summit) on the ascent to Mont Aigoual, Mas de la Barque or Mont Bouquet.
Safety on a bicycle
See and be seen. Visibility is the cyclist's first asset. Day or night, it is important to be visible to everyone: motorists, of course, but also pedestrians and other cyclists. The high visibility safety vest allows you to attract everyone's attention, and it is compulsory at night, outside built-up areas, as well as during the day in dark or foggy weather. Lighting devices, also mandatory, will ensure your visibility (reflectors, dynamo, removable lamps or autonomous reelight systems). It is also important to be clear in your intentions: hold out your arm to indicate each change of direction and make sure that your intention is well understood by other road users. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable at intersections. Following the Highway Safety Code also helps motorists anticipate where cyclists are headed.
Traffic laws. A whole set of regulations is imposed on cyclists, giving them rights but also duties in terms of equipment, traffic, or facilities. As far as traffic in France is concerned, blue signs indicate cycle paths: the round ones are compulsory and the rectangular ones advise you to use them. Prohibited expressways are indicated by white signs with red circles. For more information, see the website of the Fédération des Usagers de la bicyclette: www.fub.fr
Dare to take your place. It is a matter of taking off with confidence and taking your place in the traffic or in the dedicated facilities. Try to stay in control of your bike and your speed by avoiding zigzagging on the road. In the rain and on wet roads, remember to anticipate braking. If you are riding in a group, make sure you ride in an appropriate formation. Avoid riding with more than two people abreast. If you are overtaking another vehicle or on a narrow road, ride in a single file. It is also important to communicate with each other to warn of obstacles on the road (holes, gravel, etc.), but also to inform others that a car is overtaking or coming in front. In case of a mechanical incident, it is better not to stop on the road, but on the right side of the shoulder. It is always possible to learn to pedal or to get back on the bike: ask the bike school network or your local authority for information: www.fub.fr
