The time of year is upon us that is particularly dangerous for cyclists. Limited daylight and challenging weather conditions significantly increase the risks or accidents and injury.
I have acted for many clients who have had bicycle accidents. One of the most common ways cyclists are injured is when a car has begun to turn off a main road and into their path. I have lost count of the number of cyclists I have represented over the years who have crashed into the side of a car because the motorist didn’t check for bikes before making their turn.
As well as the broken bones, lacerations and abrasions they suffer, most cyclists are struck by the psychological impact having an accident can have. Cyclists are incredibly vulnerable road users and it is up to us all to keep them as safe as possible.
What can you do to stay safe?
The best advice for cyclists is found in sections 59-82 of the Highway Code. The rules seem obvious, but we will have all seen them being flouted on a regular basis. Here is a quick rundown of the rules:
Clothing
You should wear:
- a cycle helmet which conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and securely fastened,
- appropriate clothing for cycling. Avoid clothes which may get tangled in the chain, or in a wheel or may obscure your lights,
- light-coloured or fluorescent clothing which helps other road users to see you in daylight and poor light,
- reflective clothing and/or accessories (belt, arm or ankle bands) in the dark.
At night
Your cycle MUST have white front and red rear lights lit. It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/1985). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen. Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp.
Cycle Routes and Other Facilities
Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.
Cycle Tracks
These are normally located away from the road but may occasionally be found alongside footpaths or pavements. Cyclists and pedestrians may be segregated, or they may share the same space (unsegregated).
When using segregated tracks you MUST keep to the side intended for cyclists as the pedestrian side remains a pavement or footpath. Take care when passing pedestrians, especially children, older or disabled people, and allow them plenty of room. Always be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary. Take care near road junctions as you may have difficulty seeing other road users, who might not notice you.
Cycle Lanes
These are marked by a white line (which may be broken) along the carriageway (see Rule 140). When using a cycle lane, keep within the lane when practicable. When leaving a cycle lane check before pulling out that it is safe to do so and signal your intention clearly to other road users. Use of cycle lanes is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.
You MUST NOT cycle on a pavement.
Bus Lanes
Most bus lanes may be used by cyclists as indicated on signs. Watch out for people getting on or off a bus. Be very careful when overtaking a bus or leaving a bus lane as you will be entering a busier traffic flow. Do not pass between the kerb and a bus when it is at a stop.
The dos and don’ts of cycling
You should:
- keep both hands on the handlebars except when signalling or changing gear,
- keep both feet on the pedals,
- never ride more than two abreast, and ride in single file on narrow or busy roads and when riding round bends,
- not ride close behind another vehicle,
- not carry anything which will affect your balance or may get tangled up with your wheels or chain,
- be considerate of other road users, particularly blind and partially sighted pedestrians. Let them know you are there when necessary, for example, by ringing your bell if you have one. It is recommended that a bell be fitted,
- look all around before moving away from the kerb, turning or manoeuvring, to make sure it is safe to do so. Give a clear signal to show other road users what you intend to do,
- look well ahead for obstructions in the road, such as drains, potholes and parked vehicles so that you do not have to swerve suddenly to avoid them. Leave plenty of room when passing parked vehicles and watch out for doors being opened or pedestrians stepping into your path,
- be aware of traffic coming up behind you,
- take extra care near road humps, ‘narrowing’s’ and other traffic calming features,
- take care when overtaking.
You MUST NOT
- carry a passenger unless your cycle has been built or adapted to carry one
- hold onto a moving vehicle or trailer
- ride in a dangerous, careless or inconsiderate manner
- ride when under the influence of drink or drugs, including medicine.
And finally…
You MUST obey all traffic signs and traffic light signals.
You MUST NOT cross the stop line when the traffic lights are red. Some junctions have an advanced stop line to enable you to wait and position yourself ahead of other traffic.
Following the rules will give you the best possible chance of staying safe when cycling, whatever the weather.
If you, your friends or relatives are injured in a cycling or other type of accident then our expert team of personal injury lawyers may be able to advise you. You can get in touch by either emailing info@tayloremmet.co.uk or calling 0114 218 4000
Happy cycling!
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