Caught on camera: Speeding car hits cyclist on UAE road

Dubai - The cyclist fell on the road, in front of oncoming traffic.

A video shared recently by the Sharjah Police shows a speeding car suddenly changing lanes and colliding with a cyclist.
The footage, posted on their official Twitter handle, shows the vehicle swiftly changing lanes -- from the second-left to extreme right -- before taking the exit lane on a road.
The speeding driver fails to spot a cyclist on the exit lane and hits him after taking last-minute evasive action. The cyclist collides into the side of the car before falling on the road, in front of oncoming traffic.
What went wrong?

It's important to point out that the cyclist had entered the road from a non-designated area, thereby violating road safety rules. He was not wearing any safety gear. To top it all, he was crossing a road with multiple lanes.
Khaleej Times reported earlier that cyclists are not allowed on roads with speed limits exceeding 60kmph. Cycling clubs in the UAE also stress the importance of following the prescribed norms.
Foldubs, a Dubai-based cycling group, continuously reminds members to wear proper equipment, including helmets and reflective vests. Front and rear lights must also be installed on the bicycle and turned on when cycling at night. On the road, cyclists must stay on behind the yellow lane along the side of the road. Riding against the direction of traffic is not allowed.
Safety for motorists
Cyclists are not the only road users who must practice safety. Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, shared several precautions motorists should take when driving alongside cyclists.
- Bicycle riders are weaker than vehicles, hence be respectful and polite to them
- They are equal traffic participants - obey their rights
- Anticipate their moves and don't cut them off
- Keep a safe distance, from the side and from behind
- Around riders, use your indicators and make them know your planned moves
- Keep eye contact with riders
- Be extra careful when you see kids on bikes
- Open the door of your car carefully and watch out for bikers.