Cycle your way to safety

Here are some top tips either for those new to cycling or those in need of a safety reminder:

• Always wear a helmet – accidents can happen anywhere you cycle, be it on London’s busiest main roads or quietest cul-de-sacs. In the event of a collision, wearing a helmet could help prevent a significant trauma to the brain;
• Keep a good distance behind lorries and buses – if you can’t see their wing mirrors, they can’t see you;
• Avoid stopping in blind spots – stop behind the car in front, not to the side of it;
• Stop at red lights – if the risk to your life isn’t worrying enough then getting caught and handed a £50 on-the-spot fine might be;
• Use hand signals – don’t rely on other road users to guess where you’re going;
• Wear appropriate clothing – wear bright colours during the day and reflective clothing at night;
• Use headlights and rear lights when appropriate – they will help you be seen in poor visibility as well as at night;
• Use a mirror – having a mirror is no substitute for looking behind you, however it will help you monitor traffic behind you more frequently;
• Check your bike is roadworthy – make sure your brakes and tyres are in good condition;
• Put your mobile phone away – that text/phone call/song can wait, your safety can’t.

Sections 59 to 82 of the Highway Code set out rules for cyclists including how to deal with road junctions, roundabouts and crossing roads.