Rules of the Road for Cyclists

The UK Highway Code has been updated recently to clarify responsibilities for all road users and provide guidance to keep everyone safe.

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Safe Behaviour

Cyclists need to adopt behaviours that keep them safe but also ensure the security and safety of other public facilities users, especially pedestrians.

Traffic Lights

Cyclists must stop at red traffic lights and can be fined £50 for not doing so.

Signalling

Cyclists should signal with their arms before turning or changing lanes and check behind them before doing so.

Awareness
Cyclists should take care when passing parked vehicles, leaving enough room (a door’s width or 1 metre) to avoid being hit if a car door is opened and watch out for people walking into your path.
Pedestrian Priority
Cyclists must give way to pedestrians at junctions, zebra crossings and on shared-use paths. Cyclists should take the security and safety of pedestrians seriously.
Courtesy
When riding in large groups or with children, you can ride 2 abreast, which can be safer, but cyclists should always be considerate of the needs of other road users.
Passing
Cyclists may pass slower-moving or stationary traffic on their right or left but should proceed with caution as drivers may not be able to see them at junctions or from large vehicles

Infrastructure Use

Cyclists should be aware of the rules and guidance set out to reduce conflict and ensure all public infrastructure users stay safe.

Pavements
Cycling on the pavement is prohibited unless it is clearly marked for cyclists.
Roads
Cyclists should ride about a metre from the edge of the road. On narrow roads, it may be safer to ride towards the middle of the lane to prevent dangerous overtaking
Cycle Lanes
Cyclists are not obliged to use cycle lanes but should use them where they make the journey safer and easier.
Bus Lanes
Most bus lanes can be used by cyclists unless indicated otherwise by signs.

Clothing & Equipment

Cyclists should be aware of clothing and equipment that will make them visible and keep them and others safe in various situations.

Clothing
Cyclists should avoid clothes that may get tangled in the chain or obscure lights. Light-coloured or fluorescent clothing is recommended for visibility during the day, and reflective clothing at night.
Helmets
Wearing a helmet is recommended but not mandatory. Helmets should conform to current regulations, be the correct size, and securely fastened.
Lights & Reflectors
At night, bicycles must have white front and red rear lights lit. They must also have a red rear reflector and amber pedal reflectors if manufactured after October 1985. White front reflectors and spoke reflectors are also recommended to increase visibility.
Bell
It is recommended that a bell is fitted to the bike to alert pedestrians and other road users.