Steps for Improving Cycling Safety

Here’s the Cycle Claims list of tips and hints to help cyclists stay safe on the road.

Don’t jump red lights
Don’t ride on pavements, except on designated bike paths
Reduce your speed in the rain, as slippery surfaces will make it harder to stop quickly
Keep away from kerbs
Think about wearing a helmet
Ensure your cycle is in good mechanical condition

Always cycle in a position on the road that enables you to both see and be seen
Fit your bike with working lights and think about wearing reflective or bright clothes, especially in urban areas, when its dark and in wet weather
Try to make eye contact to ensure motorists have seen you, especially at roundabouts and other potentially hazardous road junctions
Always make clear signals
Make sure your bike is fitted with a bell and that you use it so that pedestrians and other road users know you are there

Even if a motorist isn’t signalling, don’t assume he or she will drive straight ahead. Bike accidents often occur when a motor vehicle turns left into a cyclist
If possible, avoid “undertaking” – passing a vehicle on the inside. It’s always safer to wait until the motorist moves off
Do not ride along the inside of a vehicle such as a bus or HGV, which are statistically more likely to be involved in a serious collision with a bike. This is particularly important at junctions

If you have just taken up cycling for the first time, or are returning to the saddle after a long absence, it’s a good idea to brush up on your safety knowledge and skills
Knowledge of things such as when to signal, where to position yourself and how to behave at roundabouts will increase your confidence and help you avoid becoming a cycle accident statistic
The National Cycle Training Helpline has information about courses close to where you live. Call 0844 736 8460 or 0844 736 8461 for more information.

Plan your route, bearing in mind that the shortest or most direct course isn’t always the best one. Cycle paths and quiet roads could make your journey much more pleasant
Go on a practice run. It’s a good idea to do this at the weekend, when there’s less traffic and you have more time. Once it comes to Monday morning, you’ll know exactly where you’re going and have a good idea how long your journey will take
Decide where you’ll leave your bike. If there isn’t a designated area at your workplace, you’ll need to find a safe place to lock it up during the day

Make sure you have the right clothing and equipment. If it’s a short journey, you might be happy riding in to work wearing your work clothes. If it’s a bit longer, you’ll probably be more comfortable changing when you get there
If you have access to a shower at work, it’s a good idea to keep essentials such as towel and shower gel there. If you don’t, take cleansing wipes and deodorant
Slow down towards the end of your commute to allow your body to cool down