Cycling has seen a rise in popularity in the UK over the past decade. Driven by many factors, including increased environmental awareness and the desire to switch to more sustainable and cost-effective modes of transportation. The UK government has supported the shift by investing in cycling infrastructure and promoting programs like the “Cycle to Work” scheme. Public interest in fitness and healthy living, combined with efforts to create safer, more accessible routes for cyclists, have all contributed to cycling’s increased popularity in the UK.

With an increase in cyclists comes a heightened risk to safety, especially amid the hectic nature of daily life and the rush for all types of vehicles to reach their destinations as quickly as possible. Tight schedules, roadworks, congested routes, and the potential for frayed tempers can make the roads a hazardous environment. As a cyclist, you are more vulnerable than most other road users, making it crucial to prioritise your safety.

Taking the necessary precautions can help you stay out of harm’s way and ensure you can enjoy a stress-free cycling experience. With this in mind, we’ve pulled together some top tips on how to be safe and legal whilst out on your bike.

Cycling safety tips

Wear a helmet

Wearing a helmet while cycling is highly recommended, even though it’s not a legal requirement in most places, including the UK. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) suggest that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury in the event of an accident. They emphasize that a properly fitted helmet can significantly decrease the severity of head trauma during a collision or fall, making it an important safety measure for cyclists of all ages and experience levels.

Read more: RoSPA Road Safety Factsheet >

Make sure to choose a helmet that meets the latest British or European safety standards. Do your research in advance, select one that fits correctly, and always ensure it is securely fastened. A loose or poorly fitting helmet provides little protection and may be as ineffective as not wearing one at all.

Check your bike is legal

To ensure your bike is road legal in the UK, there are a few key measures to follow. Your bike must be equipped with fully functioning brakes on both the front and rear wheels. At night or in low-light conditions, you are legally required to have a white front light and a red rear light, as well as a red rear reflector. Amber pedal reflectors are also necessary to increase visibility.

The Highway Code advises that cyclists should have a bell or similar warning device fitted to their bikes to alert pedestrians and other road users of their presence, especially in shared spaces. While it’s not a legal requirement to have a bell, it is strongly recommended as a safety measure. The code emphasises that cyclists should use their bell responsibly, giving a clear warning when approaching pedestrians or when necessary to avoid accidents. Using a bell can help ensure safer interactions with others on the road and in shared pathways.

Be seen

Cyclists should wear bright clothing for several important reasons. Firstly, bright colours enhance visibility, making it easier for motorists and pedestrians to see cyclists, especially in low-light conditions or during inclement weather. Increased visibility can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and collisions, as drivers are more likely to notice a cyclist wearing bright attire. Additionally, wearing reflective materials or accessories further improves visibility, especially at night or in poorly lit areas. Bright clothing not only enhances safety on the road but also promotes awareness of cyclists among other road users, contributing to a safer cycling environment overall.

Correct road positioning

Being in the right place on the road is so important when riding on public highways. Whilst the temptation might be to hug the kerb, you really need to avoid the gutter where the surface is most likely to be uneven and littered with loose gravel, debris and of course drain covers – all significant accident hazards. Give parked cars at least a door’s width of space and be alert to doors swinging open in front of you unexpectedly.

Don’t be afraid to take control of the road when turning right but be sure to check behind, ensure you’ve been seen, indicate your intention clearly to other road users both behind and oncoming, and position yourself safely for your right turn. Remember you have as much right as any other road user to be on the road and to be safe.

Be particularly careful when on the inside or outside of lorries, buses and other long vehicles and never undercut on the inside as the driver simply will not see you, especially if they are about to turn left. Be aware too that large vehicles also swing out to the right before turning left to give themselves clearance and are highly likely to clip anyone in a blind spot.

Keep your bike roadworthy

It’s easy to forget to do this but do get into the habit of checking tyre pressure, brakes, chains and gears on a regular basis. Worn brakes may mean you are unable to stop in time should you need to brake suddenly. Reduced tyre pressure can increase your risk of skidding. A chain coming off unexpectedly or gears that jam can throw you off your bike in the middle of dense traffic. It doesn’t take long to perform these checks that are so important in terms of keeping you safe on the roads.

Limit your distractions

Whilst it might be tempting to listen to your favourite music whilst out on the open road, it isn’t advisable. If you’re plugged in to some music device, you won’t be alert to what’s going on around and won’t hear the emergency vehicle approaching from behind at speed. Stash your electronics in your bag or pocket, disconnect from the busy-ness of everyday life and enjoy the ride!

Use dedicated bike lanes and well-lit cycle routes

Cyclists should use dedicated bike lanes and well-lit cycle routes whenever possible. Dedicated bike lanes provide a safer environment, separating cyclists from motor vehicle traffic and reducing the risk of accidents. They are designed specifically for cycling, offering a smoother and more comfortable ride. Well-lit cycle routes are equally important, especially for evening or early morning rides, as they improve visibility and help cyclists be seen by other road users, enhancing safety.

Read more: Does Outdoor Lighting at Night Improve Public Safety? >

Read more: Facilitating Safety for Pedestrians and Cyclists >

Read more: How to Facilitate Active Travel in Urban Areas >

We hope the above has given you some useful advice on how to keep safe whilst out on your bike.

Cycle path lighting from Solareye

Here at Solareye, we help local authorities, councils and private landowners install eco-friendly solar lighting to make foot and cycle paths safer and more enjoyable to use.

Our flagship product, the Solareye80 ground light is at the forefront in solar lighting technology for cycle tracks and pedestrian walkways. They are low cost, fully waterproof, extremely robust and skid proof. Powered entirely by renewable solar energy, meaning there is no need for expensive mains power connections, and with a range of ecologically friendly options available (see Solareye80 Bat Hat and warm white colour variation), they are ideal for remote and conservation sensitive areas.

For an informal discussion about your requirements, simply get in touch with us today.

Read more: LED Solar Lights for Cycle and Bike Paths >