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Cyclists and motorists have a duty to one
another to allow safe passage. Cycling is a great way to travel
around the UK, not only does it help keep you fit, but is also
kinder to the environment than motor vehicles.
We all have a right to use our roads, but
only if we do it in a safe manner.
Cyclists and motorists must have
consideration and patience for each other at all times,
otherwise it could lead to
road accidents.
Here's a guide to some basic rules and safety tips whist
cycling: We recommend you always wear a suitable helmet whilst
cycling.
Always try to make your self as
visible as possible.
Ride well clear of the kerb it helps
vehicles see you when approaching side roads.
Always wear bright or fluorescent clothing
during the day and reflective clothing by night where possible.
Don't forget at night and in bad weather you
should always use a white beam front light, red rear light and
have a red rear reflector that are all operating correctly.
Don't weave in and out of parked cars;
always travel in as straight a line as possible past them. Look
and signal before you start, turn or stop, this lets drivers
know what you are doing.
Never ignore traffic lights or pedestrian
crossings.
Don't ride on pavements.
Don't ride down one-way streets in the wrong
direction, or in bus lanes unless there are signs saying
cyclists can do so.
If cycle lanes or cycle tracks are present
and going in your direction, use them.
Don't ride with more than two cyclists side
by side, and on narrow roads stay in single file.
Cyclists, particularly younger ones can find
more cycling safety advice by visiting
www.cyclesense.net.
Here are some points motorists should
consider to help avoid
accidents with cyclists: Always check for cyclists on your
inside when turning left.
Give consideration to cyclists turning
right.
Check for cyclists before opening your
vehicles doors.
Give cyclists enough room, at the very least
a half cars width.
This is particularly important in windy
conditions or on poor road surfaces.
Understand why cyclists ride away from the
kerb, they do it to be visible whilst approaching side roads, to
have room to avoid potholes and drains, to allow for movement
caused by strong winds amongst other reasons.
Don't approach cyclists with full beam
headlights on, dip them as you would with other road vehicles.
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