Is cycling on UK roads safe?

According to Cycling UK, approximately 60 per cent of the British public consider it too dangerous a risk to take. In short: it generally isn’t, and bike accident statistics reflect that. Designated lanes are always ideal, but for the most part, road cycling is much safer than you think.

How safe is cycling on the road?

Cycling is essentially a safe activity, causing little risk either to cyclists themselves or to other road users. However, fear of road traffic is a major deterrent, despite the health, environmental and other benefits of cycling.

What are the safety guidelines for cyclists?

​Safety While Riding:

• Always hold on to the handlebar firmly and keep your feet on the pedals.
• Do not hold on to another vehicle or another cyclist.
• Do not carry a passenger unless your cycle has been built for that purpose.
• Do not ride too close behind another vehicle.
• Do not carry anything which may affect your balance.

How can I cycle safely UK?

Cycling safety tips

1. Stop at red lights. Don’t ride through red traffic lights.
2. Stay central on narrow roads. Try to ride away from the gutter.
3. Stay away from parked cars.
4. Stay back from HGVs.
5. Always pay attention.
6. Make eye contact.
7. Don’t pavement cycle.
8. Wear bright clothes.

Is riding a bike safer than driving?

But risk-wise dying in a car accident is actually relatively unlikely, though your risk of injury is higher. These figures indicate travelling by car is approximately seven times safer than riding a bike. Both driving a car and riding a motorcycle have little going for them in terms of improving health.

Is driving safer than cycling?

Based on the time spent travelling, a cyclist is five times more likely to have a fatal accident than a car driver. Pedal cycle fatalities are falling at a time when cycle traffic is rising – road traffic estimates put cycle traffic in 2013 around 13% higher than the average over 2005-09, with deaths 16% lower.

What are three rules that cyclists should follow?

When riding, always:

• Go With the Traffic Flow. Ride on the right in the same direction as other vehicles.
• Obey All Traffic Laws. A bicycle is a vehicle and you’re a driver.
• Yield to Traffic When Appropriate.
• Be Predictable.
• Stay Alert at All Times.
• Look Before Turning.
• Watch for Parked Cars.

What are the rules for cyclists?

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 or when riding round bends.
• not ride close behind another vehicle.

Is it safe to cycle in London?

There is a risk of injury any time you cycle on the road and it is true that in London, that risk is greater than in many parts of the country – but in real terms, cycling in London is statistically very safe. London is also catering more and more to cyclists, thanks to the creation of new lanes and segregated routes.