“On your left” has been the standard announcement for cyclists when approaching someone from behind.
However, consistently the problem I have encountered over the years, has been inconsistency on how people respond.
Upon hearing “On your left”, people have either:
Moved to their right.
Moved to the left.
One splits right and the other splits left, if approaching two or more people.
Continued straight ahead, near or in the middle of the path.
Raised their hand.
Given no acknowledgement that they heard me.
So where did “on your left” come from?
Apparently, it originated from bike racing. And it is commonly used in organized group rides or when approaching one or more avid cyclists from behind.
However, walkers, runners and slow bicycle riders generally don’t use the phrase “on your left”. It’s not in their everyday lexicon. They might only hear “left”.
So, I tested some other options. My objectives were:
Not to startle people.
Get the person to acknowledge they heard me.
Be friendly.
Not run over or crash into anyone.
Here are the techniques that worked best.
Slow down when approaching them.
Move to the opposite side of the path they are on. When they turn their head, they can see you more easily. They only have to turn their head 90-120 degrees. If you are directly behind them, they have to turn their entire body 180 degrees to see you.
Start announcing from a reasonable distance behind them. Give them time to acknowledge they heard you. It lowers the possibility of startling them.
Assume they have not heard you, unless they give some type of indication. They might be wearing earbuds, which makes it hard for them to hear you.
Announce yourself twice, maybe three times. Make sure you get their attention.
Here are some “noise notices” that worked well.
Ring a bell. if you have one on your bike, maybe ring it twice.
Give a friendly greeting. Instead of saying “on your left”, say “Good morning” or “Behind you” in a friendly voice. It is better understood. They more often than not, acknowledge that they have heard you.
You can add “on your left ”. By this time they have heard you, seen you and hopefully acknowledged you. They know from what direction you are approaching.
As you pass them, make a friend. Say something like, “Have a nice day”.
After doing my own testing, I searched this topic online.
A chat string on Reddit.com had cyclists weighing in on this topic. Over 850 likes and 630 cyclists posted comments! The string of comments confirmed my own test results as an effective alternative to use, rather than “on your left”.
Here’s an additional idea that one cyclist posted on the Reddit string. Back pedal. It is loud enough sound so people know you are approaching, but not too loud that makes them “jump out of their skin”. You might try it. Leave a comment below on how it works for you.
Here’s a short, entertaining video on how different people react when a cyclist announces, “On your left”. Enjoy.
If you have some thoughts, experiences or suggestions on this topic, click comments below and share them with your fellow cyclists.
Ride often. Ride safe.
Bruce
Publisher | Editor