What should cyclists do before making a turn?

Before making a turn, cyclists should always look over their shoulder to check for any oncoming vehicles or other cyclists in their blind spot. This action is crucial for ensuring their safety and the safety of those around them. By looking over their shoulder, cyclists can assess the traffic situation and decide whether it is safe to proceed with the turn. This helps prevent accidents and promotes situational awareness on the road.

Riding faster would not contribute to safety during a turn; it could lead to loss of control. Ignoring traffic signs is dangerous and illegal, as it can increase the risk of collisions and creates unpredictable scenarios for other road users. Changing gears may be relevant for managing speed or pedal resistance, but it does not address the critical safety aspect of checking for traffic before turning.